What is generalized anxiety disorder, and what are some causes?

Pets can be like people in so many ways, even when it comes to health conditions. Generalized anxiety disorder can make our pets shaky and skittish, and stress over anything from thunderstorms to separation.

Their chemistry prepares them for fight or flight, even when it's not necessary. Gary Landsberg, an Ontario-based veterinary behaviorist, provides some insight. Pets that perhaps didn't have enough exposure when they were younger, or even prenatally, to the best influences, whether they're deprived or have had nutritional problems, end up as pets that can't handle stress.

If your pet needs help coping, seek the advice of your veterinarian.

– Dr. Andrea Looney, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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