Have you ever thought about whether your dog might benefit from anxiety medication? Just like humans, dogs can experience severe anxiety and may require professional help. Anxiety medication prescribed by a veterinarian can be effective in treating various anxiety issues in dogs, from daily anxiety to specific triggers like thunderstorms or fireworks. When used correctly under veterinary guidance and in combination with behavior training, anxiety medication can significantly enhance a dog’s quality of life and help them overcome anxiety triggers.
When is it Appropriate to Use Dog Anxiety Medication?
Anxiety is a natural emotion that both humans and dogs deal with. However, when anxiety starts to negatively impact a dog’s life, it’s time to consult with a veterinarian about treatment options. Things to look out for as signs of anxiety in dogs, according to Dr. Christopher Shapley from NorthStar VETS Integrative Medicine, include:
- Restlessness
- Destructive behavior
- Excessive chewing or licking
- Inappropriate elimination
If you notice these signs in your dog, it’s crucial to seek professional help promptly. Delaying treatment can lead to a decline in both your and your dog’s quality of life, as anxiety typically doesn’t improve on its own. Untreated anxiety in dogs can also result in health issues and self-harming behaviors.
Avoid Punishing a Fearful Dog
Having an anxious dog can be challenging. It’s important to remember that your dog is not misbehaving on purpose but is experiencing genuine mental distress. If you feel overwhelmed by your dog’s anxiety, reach out for assistance. Punishing a fearful dog is ineffective and can worsen their fear and possibly lead to aggression and other behavioral issues.
Over-the-Counter Dog Anxiety Remedies
There are various over-the-counter anxiety treatments and supplements available for dogs. In mild cases, vets and owners might try these before turning to prescription medication. Some recommended supplements include Solliquin chews, zylkene, composure chews, and Adaptil collars. However, for severe anxiety, over-the-counter treatments may not provide sufficient relief. It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before trying any over-the-counter anxiety remedies.
Prescription Dog Anxiety Medications
For severe anxiety cases that significantly impact a dog’s life, a vet may recommend prescription medication. Before prescribing anxiety medication, vets typically conduct health assessments, including blood tests.
Common psychiatric medications prescribed for dogs include Prozac, Trazodone, Gabapentin, Fluoxetine, Alprazolam, and CBD. It’s crucial never to administer your own psychiatric medications to a dog.
Potential Side Effects of Dog Anxiety Medication
While anxiety medication can have a positive impact on dogs with severe anxiety, there can be side effects. These can include anorexia, constipation, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in behavior. It’s essential to monitor your dog and consult your vet if you notice any unusual behaviors while they are on medication.
Prior to starting anxiety medication, thoroughly discuss potential side effects with your vet. Finding the right medication and dosage may require some trial and error.
Building a Support System for Anxious Dogs
In cases of dog anxiety, having a collaboration between your veterinarian and a qualified dog trainer is beneficial. By assessing the home environment and tailoring a training and medication plan, they can provide the best support for your dog.
Remember, anxiety medication is not a cure but a tool to facilitate positive behavioral changes through training. Some dogs may need medication temporarily, while others may require long-term management. A multi-modal approach involving prescription medication, professional guidance, and behavior training is typically most effective in treating canine anxiety.
If you suspect your dog may be experiencing anxiety, don’t hesitate to seek help promptly. Timely intervention can prevent anxiety from worsening and improve your dog’s quality of life.
Featured Image Credit: Creative Cat Studio, Shutterstock
