Dear Daisy,
We’re fostering our first dog, a two-year old Scottish Terrier named Begbie. He’s a bit needy, which we expected, but every time we leave the house he freaks out, barks nonstop, and pees on the carpet. What can we do to help his separation anxiety?

Here’s a quick solution: Take him with you. Everywhere. We know when our owners are going out to have fun, and we want in on the action, too.
Seriously, though, separation anxiety is common among rescued and fostered dogs, and is only natural, considering how social canines are. Although it can be exacerbated by neglect, leading to a fear of abandonment, it can also stem from too much love from Mom and Dad. “Owners sometimes induce separation anxiety by cuddling their dogs too much,” says David Reinecker, a holistic animal behaviorist and “dog shrink” based in Los Angeles.

To help keep Begbie blissful when left alone, Reinecker suggests starting with more exercise. “A half hour to an hour of walking or running before leaving will help keep him calm when you’re gone,” he says. And don’t make a big deal about coming or going. In fact, Reinecker says to ignore your dog, hard as it may be, for at least 15 minutes before leaving him, and for another 15 minutes after coming back.

Reinecker also suggests making sure your dog feels comfortable and safe in the home. Limit visual stimuli by closing all the blinds. White noise, such as an audio tape of ocean waves, can soothe Begbie. And if all else fails, consider some natural relaxants: Rescue Remedy (3 to 5 drops three times a day in his water bowl), pulsatilla, and melatonin can each help Begbie be a better housesitter.