Velcro Syndrome

From  the Four Paws Acupuncture March 2020 e-letter

Velcro Syndrome One of the aspects of dealing with an elderly pet or even a loved one who is sick is not just the physical symptoms, but the emotional ones.    These past few months I have become a Grand Marshall with a parade of needy animals following me around. All I need is a baton and a band! Our dog Quan Yin has a cancerous tumor on the back leg and a hot spot on her front that she can’t seem to stop licking. She is not happy with the cone of shame. She has been extra clingy.  Our cat Nubi is 19 and jealous of the attention she is getting. He likes to scream at me during the parade. Fortunately our other cat Luna Miso is quiet and could care less.

Dealing With Needy Pets

Dealing with needy people is exhausting! Unfortunately I cannot give any advice on it. (Except to ignore then and hopefully they go away!) However, below are a few things that may help you deal with pets with Velcro Syndrome. Animals can be quite clingy when sick,  or in pain and there is no explaining why you can’t give your undivided attention to them. They do not understand the concept of going to work, taking care of day to day chores or obligations. All they want is to feel safe and assured that we are there for them, 24/7. Please note the remedies listed below are not miracle cures. It will still take a hefty amount of compassion and patience to care for your fur kids and eventually ease your loved ones into a peaceful transition when the time comes.

Bach Flower Rescue Remedy Bach Flower Rescue Remedy is a mixture of five of the Bach Original Flower Essences. It has an immediate calming effect on pets, especially in stressful situations. It is available as a tincture and a spray. Add to your pet’s water, a treat or massage gently on their forehead or ears. Safe to use and will not interfere with any medication or have loopy side effects.

Bach Flower Essences for Needy Pets Sometimes using only the Bach Flower Rescue Remedy is not potent enough, depending on the level of neediness your pet may exhibit. Add a few drops of any of the following to help ease your pet’s symptoms. These can be found online or better natural food shops. Bach Flower Chicory Essence Use for needy or clingy behavior. Good for pets who follow their owners everywhere – even the bathroom! Bach Flower Heather Essence For animals with excessive needy behavior. For animals or people who need constant attention. Dogs that bark constantly, especially when their owners are away. Animals that are destructive when left alone. A Few More Solutions Calming Music Music calms the savage beast! You can now find calming music especially for pets on YouTube or Pandora to play all day. Our zoo loves when we leave one of these stations on, especially when we are away. Quiet Moments Melatonin Treats Especially effective during thunderstorms, loud noises or for animals that are restless at night. Massage Massage your pet’s ears. Gently massage their back and tummy if they permit. Pamper yourself and go get a massage or acupuncture treatment. You deserve it. Crystals Place an amethyst geode, crystal or tumbled stones in rooms where your family and pets hang out the most. Amethyst is soothing and calming. Black obsidian or Black Tourmaline is a wonderful stone to help keep people and pets grounded. It is also used to absorb any negative vibrations and currents given off by computers, electronics and TV. Or have your pet wear a Healing Pet Amulet created with semiprecious stones.  Take your dog for a walk or to the beach if possible.  Ocean air is therapeutic for everyone. During these stressful times please make sure to take care of yourself. Being the caretaker of anyone, human or fur kid can take a toll on one’s psyche and health. Make sure to have healthy boundaries. It’s okay to say no to invitations or events. Know your limits. Give yourself permission to unplug your phone, social media and email when possible. Spending quality time with your loved ones and fur-kids during these times can be the most precious moments you will treasure forever.    Sending healing thoughts and love to all those who are care-takers. We now have a waiting list for veterinary acupuncture New Patient/ House-calls on the North Shore of MA. Still plenty of appointments for veterinary acupuncture & holistic services for pets available at Our Family PetServices in Peabody MA. http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com/contact.html Your dog or cat does not have to be a patient at OFVS. I will work together with your vet to make sure your pet gets the proper attention and care needed.  Dr Swieko at Our Family Vet is not accepting new patients at this time. Please note that I am following my own advice and unplugging my phone, computer and social media on the weekends. I do not respond to messages on Facebook, please contact me directly via email or text. All calls and emails will be returned on Monday mornings.  If there is a medical emergency please contact your veterinarian.  http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com