Carlton great and vet Dr McKay warns of increasing number of dogs suffering anxiety

There has been a rise in dogs being treated for anxiety, sparking a warning from AFL star turned vet Andrew McKay.

AFL star turned vet Andrew McKay says more dogs are being treated for anxiety because owners who stayed home during Covid lockdowns had returned to workplaces.

The Carlton great said he had noted increases in canine anxiety and even “doggie dementia” since Victorians who spent long periods of the pandemic with their pets went back to the office.

“There are that many anxious dogs out there these days,” he said.

“There are certainly increased incidents and awareness since Covid because people are leaving their dogs at home but also, I think, part of it is in the breeding. Some dogs are predisposed to anxiety.’’

Dr Andrew McKay, at home with his dogs Wally, Peggy, Poppy, and Winnie. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

McKay, who played in the Blues’ 1995 premiership, said popular poodle sub breeds such as groodles, labradoodles and schnoodles, as well as dachshunds, were the most likely to be anxious.

A surge in pet ownership during the pandemic led to owners becoming more aware of their four-legged friends’ health issues.

McKay said canine cognitive dysfunction, or “doggie dementia”, urinary tract function, skin allergies and arthritis were also common complaints.

Dr McKay says dogs can suffer from anxiety due to their owners back to work after working from home. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

McKay said pet owners were turning to supplements rather than medication.

“It’s a good way to help dogs with issues whether it’s anxiety, stiff joints, signs of old age or allergic skin problems,” he said.

“It’s worth giving supplements a go because they will have less side effects than medication and they are a little bit more natural than the medication you would buy from your local vet. But I’d still recommend getting vet advice on the issue at hand.”