Well, we are officially past Labor day, which means it’s back to school, back to activities, and back to the general hectic schedules of fall for families. But did you know that back-to-school time is also really hard on your furkids too? The change in schedules, and more time alone at home and away from their busy human families, can result in destructive behaviors and increased stress for your pet.
Sometimes, pet parents ask us if they should use medication to help with the anxiety their pet is going through. Although some fur babies do need medication for separation anxiety, we always encourage our pet parents to try a natural approach first since medications can have their own side effects. In some cases, harsh drugs can make aggression or separation anxiety worse, or a dog may become dependent on medications. We always suggest beginning with a more natural approach.
Natural herbal supplements that are gentle on the body and nervous system are a good alternative for pets suffering from separation anxiety. In addition to acting on the nervous system to reduce excitability, anxiety, aggression, or destructive behaviors, natural formulas like NHV Lesstress for dogs and NHV Matricalm for cats also help boost the immune system. They contain wholesome plant-based extracts from highly nutritious and well-researched herbs like Reishi mushroom, Echinacea, and Chamomile that help calm your pet; and being glycerine-based they are safe for long term use.
What else can you do to reduce separation anxiety in your dog or cat? Here are our 8 favorite ways!
Feed a nutritious and well-balanced diet.
Feed a nutritious and well-balanced diet. Nutrition can compound the problem of anxiety, as a poor diet will make the body go into a state of stress.
Feed your dog before going out, so that they won’t be hungry, and wonder where you are.
Walk your dog before going out. A dog that doesn’t get enough exercise has a lot of bottled up energy, which can cause destructive behaviors while you’re away.
Play some soft music while everyone is out of the house.
Leave plenty of toys and chew toys around.
Leave the TV on – some dogs and cats love watching a bit of TV (try a channel that focuses on dogs or other animals for canine kids. For feline kids, try bird videos – there are plenty on YouTube and you can even buy speciality cat DVDs).
If possible leave a window slightly open to let in some fresh air. Don’t lock your dog or cat in a place where there is no light. Pets love looking out and seeing the world around them.
Don’t just walk out of the house – leave by saying goodbye (this includes the non-fur kids that your pet may be missing). Pets understand intention.
We know how busy this time of year is, but remember it’s more important than ever to have those special moments with your furkids. Try to carve out some time to take them to their favorite park, or spend some time just throwing a ball around and playing. Not only will this help your furkids with their stress and anxiety, but it will help your own stress and anxiety too!
Help reduce aggressive behavior and provide anxiety and stress relief for your cat with Matricalm, a natural herbal product designed to help reduce excitability in your pet. Cats can become anxious or aggressive when exposed to other animals or to people they are unfamiliar with. When this occurs they may hiss, scratch, howl, or urinate inappropriately.
It’s important to remember that a significant cause of illness in pets results from stress. Helping to keep your cat stress free can help keep them healthier for longer. NHV Pet Experts also often recommend Matricalm for cats dealing with FIV, cancer, kidney issues, hyperthyroidism, and more.
Chamomile – Contains sedative properties. Chamomile also helps the immune system and has a strong affinity for the nervous system.
Passion Flower – An effective, non-addictive sedative. It helps increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps cause a feeling of relaxation. Passion Flower also has strong anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Lemon Balm – An aromatic herb used for nervous disorders, excitability, and anxiety. In addition, lemon balm helps lower blood pressure.
Valerian – Helps stop heart palpitations, relaxes spasms, relieves pain, and regulates the nervous system. Valerian also helps improve sleep latency and sleep quality.
Hops – Tension, anxiety, and stress relief in cats. Hops have traditionally been used to help with mood disturbances, such as restlessness and anxiety.
Pet's Weight Dosage
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
How to Administer
Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provided and place the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth.
Some pets can be finicky. If this occurs, consider hiding the drops in foods most pets love, such as fish, chicken, yogurt or a favorite treat. If your pet only eats dry food, then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results
Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently. Therefore, it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect; however, this interval will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage
All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives, or coloring. Shelf life after opening is six months, and it must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications
Do not use Matricalm for cats as stress relief in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve or deteriorates after the continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
Help reduce aggressive behavior and provide anxiety and stress relief for your cat with Matricalm, a natural herbal product designed to help reduce excitability in your pet. Cats can become anxious or aggressive when exposed to other animals or to people they are unfamiliar with. When this occurs they may hiss, scratch, howl, or urinate inappropriately.
It’s important to remember that a significant cause of illness in pets results from stress. Helping to keep your cat stress free can help keep them healthier for longer. NHV Pet Experts also often recommend Matricalm for cats dealing with FIV, cancer, kidney issues, hyperthyroidism, and more.
Chamomile – Contains sedative properties. Chamomile also helps the immune system and has a strong affinity for the nervous system.
Passion Flower – An effective, non-addictive sedative. It helps increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps cause a feeling of relaxation. Passion Flower also has strong anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Lemon Balm – An aromatic herb used for nervous disorders, excitability, and anxiety. In addition, lemon balm helps lower blood pressure.
Valerian – Helps stop heart palpitations, relaxes spasms, relieves pain, and regulates the nervous system. Valerian also helps improve sleep latency and sleep quality.
Hops – Tension, anxiety, and stress relief in cats. Hops have traditionally been used to help with mood disturbances, such as restlessness and anxiety.
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
How to Administer
Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provided and place the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth.
Some pets can be finicky. If this occurs, consider hiding the drops in foods most pets love, such as fish, chicken, yogurt or a favorite treat. If your pet only eats dry food, then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results
Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently. Therefore, it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect; however, this interval will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage
All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives, or coloring. Shelf life after opening is six months, and it must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications
Do not use Matricalm for cats as stress relief in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve or deteriorates after the continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
Birds can be prone to stress and anxiety, which can lead to other health conditions such as feather plucking. Help to reduce stress and anxiety in your bird with Matricalm, a natural herbal product designed to help reduce excitability in your pet.
item number
PH1100b
weight
0.7
volume
3.4 fl. oz. (100ml)
form
liquid;life stages=all"
made in
canada
Chamomile – Contains sedative properties.
Passion Flower – An effective, non-addictive sedative.
Lemon Balm – An aromatic herb used for nervous disorders, excitability, and anxiety.
Valerian – Stops heart palpitations, relaxes spasms, relieves pain, and regulates the nervous system.
Hops – Eases tension and anxiety in pets.
For birds: 1 drop per two pounds twice a day
How to Administer Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provide and place the drops into your bird's favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the bird’s mouth.
For Best Results Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications Do not use Matricalm in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve, or deteriorates after continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
Birds can be prone to stress and anxiety, which can lead to other health conditions such as feather plucking. Help to reduce stress and anxiety in your bird with Matricalm, a natural herbal product designed to help reduce excitability in your pet.
How to Administer Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provide and place the drops into your bird's favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the bird’s mouth.
For Best Results Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications Do not use Matricalm in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve, or deteriorates after continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.
Everyone knows what stress feels like, and we all know that too much stress can make us ill—high blood pressure, ulcers and even cancer can result from excessive stress. Like us, dogs can get stressed by numerous factors as well. Help your furkiddo relax into a long and happy life with NHV Lesstress - a natural dog stress support.
Beneficial for stress, anxiety and other nervous system issues
May be used for both situational stress and chronic stress
May reduce hyperactivity and destructive behavior
Supports healthy immune function
Everyone knows what stress feels like, and we all know that too much stress can make us ill—high blood pressure, ulcers and even cancer can result from excessive stress. Like us, dogs can get stressed by numerous factors as well. Help your furkiddo relax into a long and happy life with NHV Lesstress - a natural dog stress support.
Beneficial for stress, anxiety and other nervous system issues
May be used for both situational stress and chronic stress
With a heightened sense of hearing and smell, small events that seem mundane to us can be terrifying and stressful for your dogs. Sometimes the stress is from the ride to the office, or maybe they are missing their human companions. This all contributes to changes in behavior like excessive panting, drooling, sweaty paws, dilated eyes, pacing, excessively shedding, or just completely shutting down. Some dogs become so stressed that it may lead to fear and aggression.
Other forms of stress in a dog’s life include:
Working dogs that are pushed too hard
Flying on a plane
Special events (eg. fireworks)
Staying in a shelter
The loss of an owner
The loss or addition of a furry playmate
Going to a new home
Moving
In addition to panting, excessive barking/whining, chewing on themselves, shivering (when it’s not cold), panicked tail wagging, or tense muscles, stress can also cause GI tract issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.
The key to a healthy pup is balance. Too much or too little activity can be harmful, as well as too much or too little socialization. A balanced, clean diet also helps maintain the body and the mind. If your dog is susceptible to stress, you can use calming herbs like those found in NHV Lesstress. This formulation gently acts on the nervous system and immune system to provide a natural dog stress reliever.
How NHV’s Natural Dog Stress Relief Eases Stress and Anxiety
For stressful experiences such as separation anxiety, the loss or addition of a furry friend, special events (eg. fireworks) and illness (stress can cause conditions to worsen), the natural (non-addictive) sedative properties of Lesstress gently relax the nervous system and endocrine system. Ingredients like Chamomile, Passion Flower and Lemon Balm work to calm nerves while ingredients like Reishi, Eleuthero, and Echinacea Angustifolia are very beneficial for helping the body adapt to stress and illness and stimulate healthy immune function.
Help Support Your Dog Naturally
All NHV supplements like Lesstress are 100% natural and created by a holistic veterinarian and a master herbalist, specially formulated for pets. Feel free to contact our veterinary professionals to get more insight into your little one’s health and wellbeing.
item number
PH1050d
weight
0.7
volume
3.4 fl. oz. (100ml)
form
liquid
life stages
adult, senior, puppy
made in
canada
Made with the finest, organically grown, or ethically harvested herbs. Made specifically for pets, vet-formulated and vet approved.
Lesstress for Dogs
Chamomile—Known to be a general-purpose calming herb for its antispasmodic and sedative qualities; may be especially helpful for calming digestive issues triggered by nervousness and hyperexcitability
Echinacea Angustifolia—Beneficial for its immunostimulatory properties (derived from polysaccharides, flavonoids, caffeic acid, essential oils, alkylamides and polyacetylenes)
Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng)—Well known for its ability to help the body deal with and adapt to stressful situations; may increase energy levels
Lemon Balm—Has been used since the Middle Ages to reduce stress and anxiety; beneficial support for nervous disorders, excitability and anxiety
Passion Flower—Contains alkaloids and flavonoids which are natural non-addictive sedatives; anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic properties are also beneficial for relieving general discomfort
Reishi—Beneficial for helping the body deal with and adapt to stress eg. managing high blood pressure (that may be brought on by stress and anxiety); known to be a smooth muscle relaxant and may help restore immune health
Pet's Weight Dosage
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
For small animals (rabbits, ferrets), avians and reptiles use 1 drop for every 2 lb of body weight.
How to Administer Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provide and places the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth.
Some pets can be finicky, if this occurs consider hiding the drops in foods most pet’s love such as fish, chicken or yogurt or a favourite treat. If your pet only eats dry food then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications Do not use Lesstress in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve, or deteriorates after continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
With a heightened sense of hearing and smell, small events that seem mundane to us can be terrifying and stressful for your dogs. Sometimes the stress is from the ride to the office, or maybe they are missing their human companions. This all contributes to changes in behavior like excessive panting, drooling, sweaty paws, dilated eyes, pacing, excessively shedding, or just completely shutting down. Some dogs become so stressed that it may lead to fear and aggression.
Other forms of stress in a dog’s life include:
Working dogs that are pushed too hard
Flying on a plane
Special events (eg. fireworks)
Staying in a shelter
The loss of an owner
The loss or addition of a furry playmate
Going to a new home
Moving
In addition to panting, excessive barking/whining, chewing on themselves, shivering (when it’s not cold), panicked tail wagging, or tense muscles, stress can also cause GI tract issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.
The key to a healthy pup is balance. Too much or too little activity can be harmful, as well as too much or too little socialization. A balanced, clean diet also helps maintain the body and the mind. If your dog is susceptible to stress, you can use calming herbs like those found in NHV Lesstress. This formulation gently acts on the nervous system and immune system to provide a natural dog stress reliever.
How NHV’s Natural Dog Stress Relief Eases Stress and Anxiety
For stressful experiences such as separation anxiety, the loss or addition of a furry friend, special events (eg. fireworks) and illness (stress can cause conditions to worsen), the natural (non-addictive) sedative properties of Lesstress gently relax the nervous system and endocrine system. Ingredients like Chamomile, Passion Flower and Lemon Balm work to calm nerves while ingredients like Reishi, Eleuthero, and Echinacea Angustifolia are very beneficial for helping the body adapt to stress and illness and stimulate healthy immune function.
Help Support Your Dog Naturally
All NHV supplements like Lesstress are 100% natural and created by a holistic veterinarian and a master herbalist, specially formulated for pets. Feel free to contact our veterinary professionals to get more insight into your little one’s health and wellbeing.
Made with the finest, organically grown, or ethically harvested herbs. Made specifically for pets, vet-formulated and vet approved.
Lesstress for Dogs
Chamomile—Known to be a general-purpose calming herb for its antispasmodic and sedative qualities; may be especially helpful for calming digestive issues triggered by nervousness and hyperexcitability
Echinacea Angustifolia—Beneficial for its immunostimulatory properties (derived from polysaccharides, flavonoids, caffeic acid, essential oils, alkylamides and polyacetylenes)
Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng)—Well known for its ability to help the body deal with and adapt to stressful situations; may increase energy levels
Lemon Balm—Has been used since the Middle Ages to reduce stress and anxiety; beneficial support for nervous disorders, excitability and anxiety
Passion Flower—Contains alkaloids and flavonoids which are natural non-addictive sedatives; anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic properties are also beneficial for relieving general discomfort
Reishi—Beneficial for helping the body deal with and adapt to stress eg. managing high blood pressure (that may be brought on by stress and anxiety); known to be a smooth muscle relaxant and may help restore immune health
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
For small animals (rabbits, ferrets), avians and reptiles use 1 drop for every 2 lb of body weight.
How to Administer Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provide and places the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth.
Some pets can be finicky, if this occurs consider hiding the drops in foods most pet’s love such as fish, chicken or yogurt or a favourite treat. If your pet only eats dry food then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications Do not use Lesstress in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve, or deteriorates after continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.