dog stress?

Question
Dear Kristin,

I have an almost 5 year old Black Lab Retriever.  He has gone through
considerable changes and stress in the past few months.  I moved out of the
ex's home (we had raised the dog together) and he seemed to be doing fine
in his new surroundings in my new place, and not really seeing the ex at all. I
kept him very active and he seemed more playful than usual.

Recently I decided to let my parents take care of him, since I am often on the
road and it wasn't fun to have him taken care of by strangers.  He really
seems to have warmed up to my parents, who love him to death.
But recently he has been naughty - chewing mail (i know he does this when
stressed only...since i can now leave stuff everywhere and he never touches it)
and today he pooed in their home. They spend as much time with him as they
can, play with him, treat him with tons of love....and my scent is in their home
since i am there quite often.  

Is this too much change for him?  Is it better if I take him back and forth, and
keep him with me whenever I can?  I thought the driving (8 hrs) would be
stressful on him, and perhaps better to leave him temporarily with my
parents.
I would appreciate some advice...  

Answer
Hi Angela,

It's possible that your dog has maxed out in the stress department, which could explain the accident he had at your parents home. If they have their own pets,your dog may have been marking territory.

If your dog was never (or rarely) kept at your parents home when you weren't there, that could explain the accident as being a little separation anxiety. If this is the case, it's a matter of giving your dog enough time to get used to staying at your parents home, even though your scent is already there.

I tend to agree, that being taken care of by your parents sounds as though it would be better than having a stranger do it. If your dog is a really good traveler though, then even an 8 hour drive would not be stressful for him. He might really enjoy it.

If your dog doesn't travel well, then until your parents are sure there won't be anymore accidents in their home, can they crate your dog when he isn't being supervised? This way, your dog will be getting the attention he needs, and your parents home will be protected. Keep the crate in a room where your parents spend a lot of time, so your dog won't feel isolated. I think your dog will get used to this arrangment, it just takes a little time.


Best of luck,

Patti