Anxiety Treatment For Dogs

A veterinarian or canine behavior specialist will pinpoint your dog's triggers and create an anxiety treatment strategy. This includes medications such as Pheromone collars (like Comfort Zone and Adaptil) and diffusers for pheromones.

Pet parents can also opt to set up a peaceful or quiet space at home for their anxious dogs which they can go to.

Medication

Some dogs require medication to manage anxiety or behaviors based on fear. The veterinarian will determine whether your dog requires medication for long-term or short-term use, and prescribe the best option. Medication should only be used in conjunction with and not as a substitute for behavior modification and training.

Anxiety-related medications include tranquilizers, selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) tricyclic antidepressants, as well as anxiolytics. SSRIs like fluoxetine and sertraline are frequently prescribed for the treatment for anxiety symptoms of generalized anxiety separation anxiety, and compulsive behavior, such as excessive grooming. It may take several weeks before the medication starts functioning, and regular monitoring by your vet might be required. Tricyclic antidepressants like clomipramine or amitriptyline can be used to treat generalized anxiety and specific phobias. This drug class can take anywhere from four to six weeks to show results, and the veterinarian must keep track of it frequently. Anxiolytics like Alprazolam are quick-acting and are most useful when given just prior to an event that causes anxiety.

There are also natural products that help dogs feel less stressed. These include the calming effects of pheromones, calming supplements, and anxiety wraps such as the new non-prescription Calmer Canine. Some pet owners also utilize massage therapy, melatonin or acupuncture for managing anxiety. There is a limited amount of scientific evidence to support these choices.

At Small Door, we prefer to use a combination of behavior modification, changes in the environment, natural therapies, and medications as required for some dogs. Medication enhances the positive effects of training and behavior modification by balancing the chemical messengers in your dog's brain and making the repetitions of training "stick" more quickly.

In the majority of cases, the first step is to pinpoint and eliminate the root of anxiety. A reputable veterinarian or behaviorist can assist in this process and suggest methods to stay clear of your dog's triggers. Some of these strategies could be simple, like creating routines or providing your dog with lots of exercise to burn pent-up energies. Some strategies are more intricate such as desensitization and counterconditioning. In the end an experienced vet and a canine behaviorist will work together to devise a treatment strategy that is beneficial for your dog.

Training

Behavior modification is a potent tool to help your dog overcome anxiety. Once you recognize the reasons behind their behavior changes the dog will be able to relax again and enjoy life. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on the most effective training techniques for your dog, and may recommend you work with a professional dog trainer.

If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, they'll exhibit the same behaviors that dogs who suffer from other forms of anxiety, including destructive behavior, urinating and defecating in the house, pacing, stress and barking. They may also chew on things. It is also normal for them to be aggressive towards other pets as well as the people living at home. This is the reason you should work with your vet to develop an appropriate behavior plan and then hire a dog trainer.

Behavior modification can be extremely effective in the short term and is often utilized in conjunction with other treatment modalities. The use of medication can reduce the dog's negative emotional response which allows them to be more open to training and decreasing their anxiety symptoms. Clomipramine is also known as Clomicalm, is a medication which is frequently prescribed to treat separation anxiety. Dexmedetomidine, or Sileo is a medicine that is used to treat situational anxiety, including noise fear. It can take four weeks to see a therapeutic benefit. Your veterinarian will suggest regular blood tests and behavioral evaluations.

Many natural remedies can also reduce anxiety in dogs. Adding consistency and structure to their surroundings can make them feel more secure, as can pheromone sprays, music, and massage. Your veterinarian may be able to suggest a specific aromatherapy scent which will be most helpful for your pet. Use a calming t-shirt or coat that exerts constant pressure to your chest of your dog like a swaddling blanket for a newborn. This will allow them to feel less stressed when traveling, hearing sounds or being separated from their owners or meeting strangers.

Natural Therapy

There are a variety of natural techniques that can aid in calming the dog who is anxious. This includes herbal supplements as well as music, aromatherapy, and chiropractic treatment for anxiety and depression near me.

Crate training is a great method to soothe dogs suffering from separation anxiety and allow them their own space. Music that soothes stimulates serotonin which promotes relaxation in dogs and cats. Some pet owners have had success using pheromones which mimic the soothing scents dogs and cats naturally exude. These products are available in spray and collar diffuser versions.

You can also try a soothing herbal remedy such as Rescue Remedy, or Bach Flower Essences. These are diluted herbal remedies can be sprayed into the water of your pet or directly into their mouths. The majority of these remedies work as well or better than prescription anti-anxiety medication.

Physical exercise is a great method of reducing stress. It can be a simple walk or a more involved game of fetch. Anything that tire out your dog helps to keep him relaxed and less likely for him to exhibit anxious behavior. Consider teaching your dog new tricks to keep their minds active. This will provide them with something to concentrate on that is not their stress triggers and provide them with the mental exertion that they need.

A visit to a veterinarian can be beneficial for older dogs that need to be more calm or have health conditions that make them more stressed. For example an animal with discs that have slipped may benefit from chiropractic care which can help to realign the spine and keep the nerves as well as muscles in good condition and functioning normally.

In some severe cases, medication is the best choice for alleviating a dog's anxiety. However, most of the time there are other options to calm an anxious dog that are less risky and much cheaper than prescription drugs. Talk to your veterinarian about trying one (or more) of these natural remedies to determine what is the best anxiety treatment works for your dog.

Veterinary Care

Anxiety-related behavioral issues can be a challenge for pet owners and their pets however, they can be dangerous for the dog. Certain of the more serious symptoms of anxiety can cause self-mutilation or aggression. This could include pulling out fur or compulsive biting. These are serious issues that need to be dealt with by an animal veterinarian. A trained animal behaviorist who is knowledgeable about behavior can assist you with the development of a treatment plan. Some medications might be needed.

There are many medications available to ease anxiety symptoms. Your vet will prescribe the best option based on your dog's unique condition and reaction to medication. It generally takes between four and six weeks for the medication to begin working. The medication should be maintained after the positive results are noted for a period of two months. It is essential to be consistent with your dog's prescription and never stop or alter the dosage without a consultation with your veterinarian.

Anxiolytics, benzodiazepines and antidepressants are all medications that relieve anxiety. Antidepressants and benzodiazepines are medicines that work in a short time which relieve anxiety symptoms in a short time and anxiolytics are long-acting medications that ease chronic stress and anxiety.

In addition to prescribing anxiety medications Your veterinarian may also suggest non-pharmaceutical solutions like calming supplements, pheromones or anxiety wraps. Your veterinarian can give you tips on how you can reduce stress and anxiety in your dog, including exercising regularly by playing games, or spending time with him in a secure space.

There are many causes of anxiety in your dog, such as arthritis-related pain or other health conditions that can increase stress levels. Therefore, it is essential to consult your vet right away whenever your dog's behavior is changing, and especially when it appears that anxiety is caused by pain or discomfort. Your veterinarian will determine whether the cause of their anxiety is an issue with their health and recommend a trainer or an animal behaviorist if required.