Separation anxiety syndrome in the canine population of Teresina/Piauí, Brazil

Abstract

Animal Separation Anxiety Syndrome (ASAS) in dogs is a common behavioral change nowadays, resulting from new lifestyle and social changes. The signs of the syndrome are excessive vocalization, destruction of objects, and urination and defecation out of the determined place. Thus, this study aimed to identify animals with the syndrome and its signs, as well as evaluate the knowledge of the tutors about behavioral disorders in animals. The research was carried out at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital with a canine population of 131 patients. Dogs were evaluated without distinction of breed, sex, size, and age through information provided by the owners, who were asked through a questionnaire developed for the study. By evaluating the 131 answered questionnaires, 43.51% of animals were positive for ASAS. Among the 57 ASAS-positive animals, 28 were female, and 29 were male. A total of 12.28% of the females were castrated, while for the males, the castrated corresponded to 5.26%. The main signs observed were excessive vocalization (66.66%), destructive behavior (57.89%), and signs of depression in the absence of the tutor (35.08%). It was stated that 85.97% of SASA-positive animal owners searched for a veterinarian to treat behavioral problems and that 29.82% of SASA-positive animal owners were aware of the existence of the syndrome. It was concluded that SASA is common in dogs among the assessed clients. Due to the lack of knowledge of tutors about behavioral disorders, it is suggested that veterinarians address the subject more frequently, emphasizing its consequences and the need for treatment.