Canine separation-related problems. Part 5: what if enhancing a sense of safety does not work?

Separation-related problems are a source of serious welfare concerns for dogs, and their effect upon owners may result in a dog being relinquished or euthanised. Previous articles in this series have considered the dog's innate requirement for social companionship; the many different factors that may initiate canine separation-related problems; the role of emotions and learning in the development and maintenance of separation-related problemss; the dog's strong requirement for a sense of safety and how ensuring that a dog experiencing separation-related problems can be supported through enhancing its sense of coping and safety can assist recovery from separation-related problems. Yet, despite owner efforts to prioritise a concept of safety, many dogs will continue to experience separation-related problems during owner absence. This article discusses some of the extra provisions that may be beneficial to such dogs.