Anxiety Treatment For Dogs
A veterinarian or a canine behaviorist will determine your dog's triggers and develop an anxiety treatment strategy. These may include medications or collars with pheromone diffusers (like Comfort Zone or Adaptil) and regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Pet parents can also use a peaceful and tranquil space at home, where anxious dogs can retreat.
Medication
Certain breeds require medication to manage anxiety or fear-based behavior. The veterinarian will determine whether your dog requires short-term or long-term medications and will recommend the best option. The medication should be used in conjunction with behavior modification and training not as a substitute.
The medications used to treat anxiety include tranquilizers, selective serotonin release inhibitors (SSRIs) tricyclic antidepressants and anxiolytics. SSRIs like sertraline and fluoxetine are often prescribed for chronic management of generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, and compulsive behavior such as excessive grooming. They may take several weeks to show results and may require frequent examination by a veterinarian. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline or Clomipramine are also used to treat generalized anxiety and can be used to address specific phobias and aggression. This class of medication can take anywhere from four to six weeks to begin delivering effects and the vet must monitor it frequently. Anxiolytics like alprazolam are very rapid in their action and are most effective when they are administered prior to an anxious event.
There are also natural products that can help some dogs to feel less stressed. These include calming supplements, pheromones, and anxiety wraps, such as the new non-prescription Calmer Canine. Certain pet owners also employ melatonin, massage therapy, or acupuncture to help manage anxiety. However, there is only a small amount of evidence from science to support these methods.
At Small Door We prefer a mix of behavior modification, changes to the environment, natural therapies and medications as required for certain dogs. Medication supercharges the positive results of training and behavior modification by balancing the chemical signals in your dog's brain, and making repetitions of training "stick" faster.
In most cases, the first step is to identify and eliminate the underlying cause 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 can be easy, such as creating a routine or providing your dog with plenty of exercise to flush out their energy. Some are more involved, like desensitization and counterconditioning. A good veterinarian and canine behaviorist will work together to create a treatment program that works for your pet.
Training
Behavioral modification is a powerful tool to help your dog overcome anxiety. It takes time to identify the triggers for their behavior and they learn to relax and have fun again. Your vet will be able to advise you on the most effective methods for training your dog and may recommend that you work with a professional dog trainer.
If your dog has separation anxiety, they will exhibit many of the same signs as dogs who suffer from other types of anxiety. These include destructive behavior, urinating or defecating inside the house, pacing and restlessness chewing on things and barking. It is also common for them to be aggressive towards other pets and the people living in their home. This is why you should consult with your vet to create the right behavior plan and employ an animal trainer.
Behavior modification is highly effective for short-term therapy and is often combined with other treatment methods. Drugs can help reduce the dog's emotional reaction and help them become more receptive to training, while providing relief from their anxiety symptoms. Some of the most commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications include Clomipramine (Clomicalm), which is particularly helpful for separation anxiety, and Dexmedetomidine (Sileo) is a medication that is specifically designed to alleviate situational anxiety like noise fears and Aversions. It may take as long as up to four weeks before you see an improvement in your health. Your vet will recommend regular blood tests and behavior evaluations.
Many natural remedies can also help ease a dog's anxiety. They will feel more secure by bringing structure and consistency to the environment, as well music and massage. Your vet may be able recommend a specific aromatherapy scent which is most beneficial for your pet. Another option is to put on an enveloping coat or t-shirt that apply constant pressure to the dog's body similar to an swaddling cloth for a baby, and helps them feel less anxious about travel, noise, separation, or strangers.
Natural Therapy
Several natural techniques can calm dogs that are anxious. These include music, herbal supplements, aromatherapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic treatment.
For dogs who suffer from anxiety about separation, crate training can be an effective tool to help them relax and give them a safe space. Relaxing music stimulates serotonin which can promote relaxation in dogs and cats. Some pet owners have had success using Pheromones that are similar to the soothing scents that cats and dogs naturally emit. These products are available in spray and collar diffuser versions.
You can also make use of a soothing herbal remedy such as Rescue Remedy, or Bach Flower Essences. These are herbal remedies that have been diluted and can be sprayed into the water of your dog directly or directly into their mouths. Often these herbal remedies will work as well or better than prescription anti-anxiety medication.
Physical exercise is a great way to reduce stress. It could be as simple as a long walk or as intense as a game of fetch, however anything that exhausts your dog will keep them calm and less likely to exhibit anxious behaviors. Try teaching your dog new methods to keep their minds engaged. This will provide them with something to focus on, apart from their stress triggers, and will provide them with the mental exercise they crave.
A visit to the veterinarian could be beneficial for dogs that require to be calmer or those with medical conditions that cause them to be more stressed. Chiropractic treatment can be beneficial for dogs suffering from discs that are slipping. It can help align the spine, and help keep the nerves and muscles in good shape.
In certain instances medication is the best choice for alleviating anxiety in dogs. In most cases, however, there are less expensive and safer ways to calm a dog who is anxious. Consult your veterinarian and try one (or all) of these natural remedies to determine what works best for your dog.
Veterinary Care
Anxiety-related behavior problems can be a challenge for pet owners and their pets but they can be dangerous for the dog. Some of the most severe symptoms of anxiety can cause aggression, and even self-mutilation such as pulling out fur or a recurrent kissing. These are serious issues that require the help of veterinarian. A professional trained in animal behavior can help you develop the best treatment plan. Some medication may be required.
Many medications are available to treat anxiety-related symptoms. Your vet will prescribe the most appropriate medication based on the particular situation of your dog and the reaction it has to medication. The typical dosage is up to six weeks before the effect becomes clear and should be continued for two months following the positive response is seen. It is important that you adhere to the prescriptions of your vet for your dog and never change or stop the dosage without consulting your vet.
Antidepressants, anxiolytics and benzodiazepines are all medicines that help to reduce anxiety. Antidepressants and benzodiazepines are short-acting medications which relieve anxiety symptoms in a short time and anxiolytics are long-acting medications that ease anxiety and stress that is a constant source of.
In addition to prescribing anxiety medications, your veterinarian will likely recommend non-pharmaceutical remedies, such as calming supplements, pheromones or anxiety wraps. treatments for anxiety can also guide you on the best ways to decrease stress and anxiety for your pet, which includes exercising regularly, playing games and spending time in a calm environment with your pet.
Many factors can contribute to your dog's anxiety, such as pain from arthritis or other health conditions that can increase overall stress levels. Consult your vet immediately when you notice an alteration in your dog's behaviour and especially in cases where the anxiety may be caused by pain. Your vet will determine whether the anxiety is caused by an illness or condition, and will refer you to an animal trainer or behaviorist if required.