A dog lover from Guildford has created Dog Separation Anxiety Day to raise awareness of how dogs cope being home alone.

Jo Sellers realised her dog Reba struggled to be in a room alone, let alone in the house by herself, so studied the condition that an estimated six million dogs in the UK experience.

As an accredited dog trainer, she wanted to do something to help, so created Dog Separation Anxiety Day which takes place for the first time on Friday, September 30. 

Jo, 52, who runs Pippin Pets Dog Training in Surrey, has helped Reba, a Cocker Spaniel and Bichon Frise cross, feel more confident when home alone and hopes the day will help dog owners understand how to spot the signs of Separation Anxiety and find ways to support their pets.

Jo said: “At the beginning, I really struggled with my puppy and what should have been the best time, was the worst.  I had no idea that dogs could panic being home alone, and I also was feeling trapped in my own home.  Initial advice only made things worse and I was upset, sleep deprived and felt so guilty that my puppy was crying so much after being told to keep her in her crate, don't return to her when she barks and leave her to cry it out.

“After finding a kind way of helping Reba, I was inspired to train as Certified Separation Anxiety Specialist and my mission is to raise the awareness so other dog owners don’t need to feel trapped and resentful of their dogs.

“The day is to highlight what to look out for, and how owners can watch their dogs and spot the signs if their dog is feeling anxious or stressed and find support. 

“It’s estimated nearly six million dogs in the UK don’t feel happy being home alone, to varying levels of anxiety so the more dogs we help, the more owners will feel happier about popping out knowing their dog is safe, calm and relaxed.”

Jo is hoping that dog owners will join in and share their stories, and spread the word about Separation Anxiety in dogs, so owners who are struggling know the right help is out there.

To find out more about the day, go to https://www.pippinpetsdogtraining.co.uk/dog-separation-anxiety-awareness-day/