Owner Post-Traumatic Anxiety Following a Dog Attack Restricts Pet's Social Life

Summary

Pet owners can suffer from severe, long-lasting post-traumatic anxiety and guilt after witnessing their dog be attacked by another dog, even when the dog recovers physically and mentally. This trauma causes owners to avoid off-leash interactions, cross the street to avoid other dogs, and restrict their pet's opportunities for socialization and play, ultimately diminishing the pet's quality of life. Existing online advice is generic and fails to address this specific form of pet-related PTSD. There are no specialized support groups, therapies, or training programs focused on the owner's psychological recovery, leaving owners to suffer silently for years while their pets miss out on joyful experiences.