Does Your Dog's Separation Anxiety Make You Feel Like A Prisoner in Your Own Home?
You're Not Alone!
Owner's of dogs who struggle with separation anxiety often feel hopeless and like prisoners.
But it is fixable with the right training. I know, because I've lived through it.
Separation Anxiety is a panic disorder that a small percentage of dogs suffer from. It's also one of the more challenging behaviors to work through, and most owners who have dogs that struggle from this feel isolated, helpless and resentful.
The emotional toll it takes on both the human and the dog is massive and can effect all aspects of your life.
What is it?
Put simply, a dog with separation anxiety is a dog that is afraid of being left alone. Separation anxiety/isolation distress is a fear/panic disorder that affects almost 20% of all dogs in the US and worldwide. Typical signs of separation anxiety include near constant barking, whining, pacing, sweating, drooling, pawing or scratching, inappropriate elimination, destruction of the environment, attempts to escape, and even self-mutilation.
Why Does It Happen?
Dogs by nature are social animals. Left to their own devices, they would live in groups and benefit from collaborative hunting, breeding/puppy rearing, and communal defense against predators. It is therefore reasonable to expect that social interaction is hard-wired into a dog’s behavior. They bond closely to their core relationships and need their group to feel comfortable.
There is Hope!
No other behavioral issue has the household impact that canine separation anxiety does. Clients often feel trapped and like prisoners in their own home. Or they feel guilty knowing their dog is suffering when they do venture out. The good news is that by using the proper training method you can regain the freedom, peace of mind and get the relationship you have wanted with your dog.
How Jenna Can Help.
The most effective, long-lasting approach to training dogs with separation anxiety is straightforward—but not easy. It can be challenging for pet owners to tackle alone, especially at first.
Every client's journey begins with a live 90 minute consultation via Zoom.
During this consultation:
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We'll dive deep into your dog's history to understand the root of their separation anxiety.
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We'll discuss your schedule, goals, and the best approach for your unique situation.
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Finally, we'll conduct a live video assessment to establish your dog's starting baseline.
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Based on everything we've learned, we'll create and explain your first assignment: a simple 30-minute training session tailored just for you and your dog.
We'll guide you through that initial assignment live online, answering all your questions and ensuring your dog is comfortable.
If you choose one of our packages, expect four to five customized 30-minute assignments per week, based on your daily progress reports. Each one is tailored specifically for you and your dog.
Future weeks follow the same structure: a live video assessment followed by a live session with Jenna, plus personalized homework.
Separation anxiety training can be intense, so we build in at least two rest days each week for everyone—canine and human—to relax and recharge.
Throughout the process, we're your dedicated support team: celebrating successes, troubleshooting setbacks, and equipping you with the skills to maintain progress independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Separation Anxiety?
Separation Anxiety is a panic disorder. Dogs who struggling with this behavioral challenge tend to be fine as long as they are with someone but go into a panic when they are left alone. Only about 20% of dogs truly suffer from separation anxiety, which is why most people don't understand the true nature of it and many trainers don't know how to help you resolve it.
Do dogs really outgrow separation anxiety?
Not without structured training. True separation anxiety is a phobia that requires gradual, systematic exposure to improve. Over time, without training, it can get worse.
How long does it take to fix separation anxiety?
I wish I could give you a finite answer to this question. Every dog is different, but with consistency and proper guidance, most guardians begin seeing measurable progress within weeks.
Can virtual training work as well as in-person for separation anxiety training?
Separation anxiety training is most successful when done virtually. Why? Because I influence your environment. When you are leaving in real life I am not part of the process. So training for real life with me in a different location sets up the training to be most effective.
How much will separation anxiety training cost?
This is always one of my questions too. I like to be transparent and you can find my price list by clicking read more.
Why Work With Jenna
Jenna is one of the elite Certified Separation Anxiety Trainers (CSAT) in the world. She completed an in depth certification program with world renowned Canine Separation Anxiety Expert Malena DeMartini and has helped many clients overcome this challenging problem.
Jenna was her own first client as Emmy, her Alaskan Husky/Greyhound Mix, suffered from isolation distress and that is how she found Malena's book Treating Separation Anxiety in Dogs.
The rest is history.
This was by FAR one of the most challenging behaviors I've ever had to work through and is very happy to report that Emmy was very happy when left home alone, until she passed away.
I was invited to contribute to Malena's blog and gladly took advantage of the opportunity. You can read the article here: Me, Emmy and Separation Anxiety.
Learn more about how Jenna can help you and your pup by scheudling your FREE chat with Jenna now!
Getting Started Is Easy!
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Schedule Your Free 20-Minute Call
Click the "Chat With Jenna" button and fill out the quick form. It's easy and takes just seconds.
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Pick a time to chat.
Choose the best day and time that works for you. Jenna will call you—no need to dial in!
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Ask your questions.
Every dog and situation is unique. During the call, Jenna will get to know you, your dog, and exactly how she can help a personalized plan of action.
Ready to Leave Fido Home Alone?
Separation Anxiety Training Pricing
Virtual Head Start $150.00
All new clients start here. What's Included: 60-90 minute Consultation with Jenna where we go over your dog's history and your training goals. Record A Threshold Assessment - this helps us to find out how long your pup is alone before they start to panic. Help you identify your pet's triggers and emotional state causing the behaviors. Overview of what training & behavior change entails in order to be successful. Provide important safety and management strategies that you can immediately incorporate into your daily routine. Additional Resources and handouts.
4 Week Intensive Training Package: $650.00
Prerequisite: Virtual Head Start what's included: 20 customized training plans 4 weekly 60 minute check-ins with Jenna Unlimited support during business hours Video review of your recorded training sessions In-depth custom data charting & graphing Support, cheerleading & coaching
8 Week Training Package Option: $650.00
Prerequisite: Virtual Head Start what's included: 20 customized training plans 4 weekly 60 minute check-ins with Jenna Unlimited support during business hours Video review of your recorded training sessions In-depth custom data charting & graphing Support, cheerleading & coaching
Subsequent 4-week packages after initial intensive package are $600/4 weeks or $600/for 8 weeks
***I do offer additional discounted pricing depending on each individual needs on a limited basis.
Payment is due upfront, unless otherwise arranged. We accept Cash, Check, Credit Cards, Venmo and Zelle.
Proudly serving Lexington, KY, and surrounding areas, including Winchester, Mt. Sterling, Richmond, Versailles, Nicholasville, Georgetown, and nearby Central Kentucky communities.
