Is your pet stressed out? How would you know? What can you do to help?

What a life. Someone plays with you, feeds you and only expects you to be an occasional sentry guard. But our canine companions don't always realize what a great life most of them have.

Dogs often experience stress because of changes in their environment and uncertainty. A dog may exhibit stress by barking excessively, tearing up the house, inappropriate elimination, or self trauma.

A recent article in "Pets, Part of the Family," suggests ways of relieving stress.

1. Give your dog a job. Try participating in agility classes. Just fetching the morning paper may give the pet a reason for being.

2. Keep your dog active. Try going for a walk, throwing a Frisbee, or practicing obedience commands such as "sit, stay and down."

3. Establish a pack order, with you and not your dog at the top. Pets really do want loving and consistent discipline.

Try these steps, but see your veterinarian if your dog still seems stressed out, there are medications that can help, because it is "Your Pet...Health Matters."