Our pets experience stress much more often than we realize. For example, being in a small apartment with a large dog without sufficient exercise causes stress.
A small dog left in the care of a stranger can be in a real panic. Often, nervous shock in dogs is accompanied by behavioral disturbances and serious health problems. In severe situations, the help of a veterinarian is required.
You should also try to eliminate the stress factor and, if necessary, give the dog a sedative. In order to help your pet cope with neurosis at home, sedatives based on herbal ingredients are more suitable.
Review of the best sedatives and medications for dogs
Owners of dogs, especially small breeds, are sometimes forced to give their pets sedatives.
Indications for taking such drugs are as follows:
All sedatives are divided into several groups:
- Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, etc.). They act quickly and for a short time, so they are used for panic attacks. Sold strictly according to prescription.
- Non-benzodiazepine tranquilizers (buspirone). Relieves anxiety and relieves the dog of phobias.
- TCAs or tricyclic antidepressants (clopyramine, amitriptyline). Used for outbursts of aggression caused by phobias or severe stress. The effect of the medications appears only 20 days after daily use.
- Muscle relaxants (rometar, vetranquil, ditilin, etc.). They are used to completely immobilize the dog during surgery or other procedures (teeth brushing, haircut, etc.).
- Herbal remedies (fitex, cat bayun, stop stress, medicinal herbs). These drugs are the safest, but they begin to act only some time after the start of use.
Xanax
Available in tablet form in two dosages: 2, 1, 0.5 and 0.25 mg, 30, 50 or 60 tablets. in a branded box with instructions. The active ingredient is alprazolam. The veterinarian selects the dose based on the dog’s weight, starting with the minimum and looking at the reaction. Course duration is from 2-3 days to 3 months.
Xanax can cause drowsiness, disorientation, and unsteady gait. It is not recommended to give Xanax to dogs with liver disease. Prohibited for use in acute respiratory failure.
The price depends on the dosage and number of tablets in the package:
- 50 pcs. 2 mg – 2500-2800 rub.;
- 60 pcs. 1 mg – 2000-2500 rub.;
- 30 pcs. 1 mg – 1100-1300 rub.;
- 30 pcs. 0.5 mg - 800-1000 rubles;
- 30 pcs. 0.25 mg – 500-700 rub.
Valium
Currently not available for sale in pharmacies.
The active ingredient is diazepam. It is sold in the form of dragees, injection solution, and tablets. The doctor selects the dose, starting with the minimum. Used for epilepsy in dogs. The effect of the drug is short-lived, so it can only be used to relieve an acute attack.
Valium
Klonopin
Used for epilepsy in dogs. The active ingredient is clonazepam. Available in the form of tablets of 0.5 or 2 mg. They are packaged in blisters of 30 pieces. It goes on sale in branded boxes, each containing 1 blister and instructions. The average cost of packaging is 120-180 rubles.
Klonopin is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating females, as well as in animals suffering from liver and kidney diseases, and acute respiratory failure.
The active ingredient in Klonopin is clonazepam.
Buspirone
Buspirone relieves anxiety in dogs and helps cope with fear and phobias. After a course of taking buspirone, the animal becomes more confident. The dosage is prescribed by the doctor. First, start with the minimum dose, which is gradually increased until the desired effect is achieved.
Contraindications include pregnancy, lactation, liver and kidney diseases.
Available in tablets of 5 and 10 mg, each package contains 20 or 100 pieces.
Average cost of buspirone:
- 20 tab. 5 mg - 500-600 rubles;
- 20 tab. 10 mg – 800-900 rub.;
- 100 tab. 5 mg – 3300-3500 rub.;
- 100 tab. 10 mg – 5400-5600 rub.
Buspirone
Clomipramine
The product calms the dog, improves mood, eliminates fear and panic. This effect is achieved only with long-term use of the medication. The dose begins to be selected, starting with the minimum.
Clopipramine should not be given to dogs that are intolerant to its components.
Available in the form of yellow tablets of 25 mg. They are packaged in blisters or plastic jars of 10, 20, 30 or 50 pcs. They are then packaged in cardboard boxes with instructions, each containing from 10 to 100 tablets. More often in pharmacies you can find packages of 30 pieces, the average price of which is 200-250 rubles.
Clomipramine
Amitriptyline
The drug improves the animal’s mood and relieves anxiety. The effect of use appears no earlier than 2-3 weeks after the start of therapy. Contraindicated in animals that have suffered a heart attack or severe poisoning.
It is forbidden to prescribe amitriptyline to pets who have hypersensitivity to the components that make up the medicine.
The dose is prescribed based on the pet’s weight, starting with the minimum. Duration of admission is at least 3 months. Amitriptyline is available in the form of an injection solution (2 ml, 5 or 10 pieces in a pack) or tablets (10, 25 or 50 mg of the active ingredient, 10, 20, 50 or 100 pieces in a pack).
Average price:
- 50 tab. 10 mg – 30-60 rub.;
- 50 tab. 25 mg – 60-70 rub.;
- 10 amp. 10 mg – 40-50 rub.
Amitriptyline
Fitex
Drops based on medicinal plant extracts. The basis of the drug: valerian, motherwort, common hop, Baikal skullcap. The drug calms the animal, has a slight hypnotic effect, and eliminates anxiety. Drops begin to be given 10-15 days before the desired date (exhibition, moving, etc.), and another 10-15 days after it.
Available as a thick brownish liquid that may form a sediment. It goes on sale in bottles (plastic or glass), each of which contains 10 ml of the drug. The average price of a bottle is 130-160 rubles.
Fitex
cat Baiyun
A decoction based on medicinal herbs such as motherwort, plantain, horsetail, licorice root, and peppermint. Prescribed to normalize the behavior of hyperactive and anxious dogs.
Also effective for causeless barking and anxiety, excitement and fear.
The Bayun cat is produced in the form of a brownish liquid with a characteristic herbal odor. The package contains 3 glass bottles, each containing 10 ml of the drug. The average price of a pack is 130-160 rubles.
cat Baiyun
Stop stress
A drug that contains phenibut (a nootropic agent) and herbal extracts (valerian, mint, peony, motherwort, skullcap, hops). Indicated for increased excitability and irritability, barking for no reason. The drug is also given to pets before exhibitions, transportation and other stressful situations.
Stop stress is available in the form of a 10% solution (poured into dark bottles of 10 or 15 ml) and tablets of 500 or 200 mg. The average cost of 15 ml of solution is 220-250 rubles; 10 ml – 180-200 rub. Price of tablets: 20 pcs. 200 mg - 250-270 rubles; 20 pcs. 500 mg – 320-360 rub.
Stop stress
Popular sedatives
In veterinary pharmacology, sedatives for dogs are presented in a huge range. Below are brief descriptions of the most popular drugs.
- Antistress. These are tablets whose sedative component is motherwort. In addition, they contain ascorbic acid, seaweed extract, and baker's yeast. They help with nervous breakdowns, calm in stressful situations, and help strengthen the pet’s immune system.
- Beaphar no stress. The drug is available in the form of drops on the withers and a diffuser. The anti-stress effect is due to valerian.
- Stop stress. Available in tablet form and drops. The composition contains phenibut, as well as extracts of medicinal plants. Suitable for large breed dogs, medium-sized animals and small pets. Acts quickly; the drug is indicated for increased arousal, provoked by fear, sexual desire, and panic.
- VetCalm. The suspension contains plant extracts. Effectively “removes” aggression and barking for no apparent reason, helps with excessive sexual arousal. You can take the drug with you on the road, use it before going to the hairdresser or to the veterinarian.
- Cat Baiyun. The manufacturer included extracts of medicinal plants in the composition of the product, which eliminate not only fears and anxiety, but also pain and spasms. In addition, Kot Bayun has a sedative effect. In the appropriate dosage, the drug is suitable for small and medium breeds, as well as large dogs.
- Fitex. These plant-based drops eliminate muscle spasms, soothe, normalize blood pressure in your pet, and support heart function in stressful situations.
- Phospasim. Homeopathic medicine created on the basis of passionflower extract. It is successfully used for neurotic conditions of the dog, phobias, and improves the behavioral factor. It also strengthens the immune system and promotes adaptation to stress.
- Pillkan 20. Active substance – megestrol acetate. Effective against excessive sexual activity in dogs of both sexes, it calms and normalizes behavior. Delays estrus if for some reason it is not necessary, for example, if an exhibition is planned and pregnancy is not needed. The product is produced in the form of sugar briquettes, soluble in water.
- Sileo. The active ingredient is dexmedetomidine hydrochloride. It copes well with panic and anxiety if the pet is sensitive to loud noise. The drug is sold in gel form in a dispenser syringe; injected into the oral cavity onto the mucous membrane.
- Nutri-Vet Anti-stress. The product contains tryptophan, taurine, hops and other plant components. Available in tablet form for chewing. Judging by the reviews, it helps to overcome anxiety, panic, fear of moving, visiting the veterinarian or performing hygiene procedures, and is effective during estrus.
In addition to the listed sedatives, in order to eliminate fear and anxiety, prevent aggression and excessive activity in dogs, strong drugs such as Xylazal or Xyla are used for medical procedures, examinations, and surgical interventions. They are available in the form of injection solutions and are used to relieve pain, muscle relaxation, and immobilize the animal.
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In addition to pharmacological drugs, other means can be used to calm your pet. For example, collars impregnated with special compounds: valerian and lavender essential oils (Beafar Antistress), pheromone (Sentry Good Behavior). Also on sale are sanitary napkins with lavender, which help calm an animal when visiting a veterinarian or at an exhibition (Perfect Calm wipes), and special calming shampoos on a natural basis (Perfect Calm lavender).
Be that as it may, no matter what products the veterinary pharmaceutical industry produces, the best sedative for a dog is its owner. Love and attention to your pet, willingness to support him in any situation, to protect him from stress is the key to the health of the nervous system of your four-legged friend.
As folk remedies, infusions of sedative herbs are used, which can be purchased both at a veterinary and at a regular pharmacy. This option will be the safest and most gentle for your pet, but not always effective.
Valerian
Helps with neuroses and panic conditions. Valerian is an antispasmodic, which helps cope with stress-related diarrhea. In some cases, an allergic reaction in the form of overexcitation of the nervous system is possible, which is especially not recommended for large aggressive dogs. At the first signs of such a reaction, the drug is immediately discontinued. The course of taking valerian is no more than a week. Dosage – 5-15 drops (depending on the dog’s weight) 3-4 times a day.
Motherwort
Indications for use and effects on the nervous system are approximately the same as those of valerian. But the result, as a rule, is much better, and there are no side effects in the form of increased excitability. You need to take it in a course, about a week. The dosage is calculated the same as for valerian: 5-15 drops 3-4 times a day.
Passionflower
This plant has a good effect on stress and panic, which are accompanied by aggression. Helps cope with manifestations of jealousy towards a new animal, guests in the house or a child. It works well in cases where valerian gives the opposite stimulating effect.
Baikal skull cap
Effective for acute or chronic restless conditions, increased excitability, nervous tension (including due to injury or illness). Has a restorative effect after experiencing stress.
Less dangerous sedatives for dogs are natural, plant-based drugs. Extracts of medicinal plants have a unique biochemical composition, are rich in components and organic compounds that have a beneficial effect on the nervous system of animals, suppress feelings of fear, and help cope with stress.
Stop stress for dogs
Effective herbal anti-stress preparations for dogs in drops:
- Cat Baiyun. Can be used not only for cats, but also for dogs of various breeds and age groups, starting from one year. The drug has a mild sedative effect, relieves fear, anxiety, and eliminates panic. In case of severe stress, the dog is given the remedy on an empty stomach two to three times a day.
- Fitex. A fairly effective, safe sedative for animals, which contains exclusively natural ingredients, extracts of medicinal herbs (motherwort, mint, valerian, skullcap, hops). To normalize the emotional state of your beloved pet, dogs are given Fitex three times a day to relieve stress at the rate of one drop per kilogram of the dog’s body weight.
- Hormone Balancer Flower Essence. Stop-stress drug is available in drops. It is one of the very effective drugs that veterinarians prescribe not only as a sedative, but also to correct behavior and normalize hormonal balance, usually during the period of sexual heat, in case of false pregnancy. dosage: seven drops for dogs of any age, all breeds.
- Stop stress in drops. 1 ml contains 100 mg of phenibut, a balanced complex of aqueous extracts of medicinal plants, such as: peppermint, peony, Baikal skullcap, hops, motherwort, valerian. It is one of the safest, most effective sedatives for dogs and cats. It has a pronounced tranquilizing, psychostimulating, antioxidant effect. The drug improves the functional state of the brain by activating metabolic processes in tissues and speeds up cerebral circulation. Stop stress in drops for dogs increases the body's adaptive capabilities to environmental stress factors. Does not provoke side effects, is not addictive. Prescribed to dogs for the correction of behavioral psychogenic disorders. Dogs are given 3-5 drops three days before visiting an exhibition, before transportation, visiting a veterinary hospital and for another three days after.
- Jerob B—Calm Dietary Supplement. A soothing tincture containing extracts of medicinal plants. Contains the amino acid L-tryptophan. Dosage: one teaspoon for every 4.5 kg of dog's weight, twice a day.
- Phospasim. Homeopathic complex sedative drug. Can be used for dogs of various breeds and age groups. There are no contraindications for use. The dosage is calculated based on the dog's weight. To relieve stress and normalize the emotional state, Fospasim is given 1-2 times a day for one to two weeks.
Fitex – soothing drops for dogs, cats
Use potent sedatives for animals in tablets, sprays, drops only in case of urgent need.
Pheromones
In addition to herbs, to calm a dog and normalize its emotional and mental state, you can use pheromones - special chemical volatile substances that ensure communication between individuals of the same species. These are something like odors that can only be smelled by animals of the same species. To calm dogs, a synthetic analogue of pheromone is used, which is secreted by a lactating (nursing) bitch on the third to fifth day after giving birth. It ensures the relationship between the puppy and the mother dog, and has a calming, calming, relaxing effect not only on small puppies, but also on adult animals.
Synthetic pheromones are available in the form of sprays and aerosols. There are also special collars with pheromones on sale (Sentry GoodBehavior). The most effective remedies include: Adaptil, Help dog, Calm-Quil Soothing Spray.
Preparations containing amino acids
The amino acids L-theanine and L-tryptophan take part in biochemical processes in the brain, helping to reduce anxiety and stabilize the emotional state.
Serene-Um
. Soothing product based on vitamins and L-tryptophan. Suitable for short stressful periods. Available in the form of tablets and drops, you can give it as a treat or add it to food. Manufacturer: Mark & Chappell (Ireland).
Sanal Relax
. The drug contains vitamins and L-tryptophan. Available in tablet form. Manufacturer: Sanal (Holland).
Nutri- Vet
Pet Ease.
Chewable tablets for dogs contain natural herbal ingredients and L-tryptophan. A good choice for animals that are nervous and prone to nausea when traveling (due to ginger in the composition). No studies have been conducted in pregnant or lactating animals, so the drug is not recommended for them. Dosage: 1 tablet per 5 kg of weight (no more than 6 tablets per day). Manufacturer: Nutri-vet (USA).
Virbac
Anxitane
. Chewable tablets based on the amino acid L-theanine. They have no contraindications. Application regimens are different, depending on the duration of stress and the dosage of the tablets. Manufacturer: Virbac (France).
Zylkene.
Food supplement. Made from the protein found in milk (an ingredient that helps puppies relax after feeding). The drug affects receptors in the brain, producing a calming effect. Has no contraindications. Available in the form of capsules with powder that can be added to food. The drug is given once a day, dosing by weight. Manufacturer Vetoquinol (France).
What should not be done or mistakes of the owners
In order for sedative measures to have the desired result, the following mistakes should be avoided:
- You cannot make sudden movements, wave your arms, or shout at the dog - aggression may intensify, and the pet will instinctively rush at the owner for the purpose of self-defense;
- You should not try to calm an excited dog with treats - the animal will perceive the gesture as encouragement for its behavior;
- You cannot shout at a barking dog. The pet attracts attention to itself and in fact it gets its way. He will continue to do this forever, knowing that you will always respond to barking. You should try to ignore it for a while;
- If some sedative does not help her, it should be changed to another. It may not be suitable. In no case should the dosage be exceeded;
- It is forbidden to give the dog sedatives used by the person himself - the effect may be the opposite, aggression and activity may increase;
- A hyperactive dog can only be calmed by appropriate physical activity; it is not advisable to use sedatives.
How to give?
Any medicine has a specific smell and taste, including motherwort. If the owner acts rudely, the dog will always run, hide and show aggression in response to an attempt to give the drug. And this is just additional stress.
The easiest and most effective way to cheat for large breeds is to hide a tablet in a treat (a piece of cheese, meat, minced meat). You can give the capsule in the form of a game: give it to your pet as a reward for the “catch on the fly” command - many dogs swallow pills out of habit.
If this method fails to persuade your pet, you will have to move on to an alternative method. If the medicine is bitter, you can mix the powder with water or give it to your dog using a syringe (without a needle).
To do this, calmly approach the animal, sit down, hug the pet by the neck and slightly raise its head, holding it with your hand from below.
Now, with your index finger and thumb, you need to carefully open the mouth, pushing the syringe behind your cheek (try to get into the space between the teeth) and press on the plunger. The diluted medicine gets into the throat and the dog has to swallow.
Important! Do not rush to introduce too large a portion at one time. This can cause your pet to choke and start coughing. After this, he will be wary of even such a harmless attempt to give a sedative.
Calming for dogs - reviews
Review about “Stop Stress”, writes Elena. I have a Russian Toy who is very excitable. Hearing a dog barking on the street, he immediately runs to the balcony to answer the noise outside the front doors - he immediately goes there to defend the territory. At the same time, he is also cowardly, very afraid of fireworks and firecracker explosions. Another problem is females who are in heat; after meeting them on a walk, he cannot sit still, eats poorly, etc.
In all these cases, I use STOP STRESS for small breed dogs, following the dosage strictly according to the instructions. This drug relieves excessive excitability and a nervous or frightened dog turns back into a normal dog. Over the course of a year, you have to use STOP STRESS for about 3-4 weeks, and I recommend it to you if the same situations happen to your dog.
By the way, many write that this kind of music helps calm their pets:
Review of Sentry Calming Collar, writes Alla. When traveling to Turkey, we used a calming collar with pheromones to make the dog feel better during the flight. The name of the collar is Sentry Calming collar for dogs, at that time the price was about 800 rubles. The collar is packed in a foil bag, the smell from it is somewhat reminiscent of baby powder (not sharp, but noticeable).
For our Jack Russell Terrier it turned out to be a little long, but it can be simply trimmed in this case. We put it on 12 hours before departure, then put it on when traveling by bus and when left alone in the room. I don’t know if he helped, I’d like to think so. The dog was spinning a little in his carrier and was a little worried. But this is his first flight and a long journey, maybe it would be worse without the collar.
Prices for sedatives
- “Sex barrier” (10 tablets) ~ 135 rubles;
- “Sex barrier” (3 ml) ~ 225 rubles;
- “Four with a tail” ~ 55 rubles;
- “STOP-INTIM” (12 tablets) ~ 145 rubles;
- "EX-5" (2 ml) ~ 145 rubles;
- “Stop-stress” (15 ml) ~ 180 rubles;
- “Cat Bayun” (10 ml bottle) ~ 125 RUR;
- “Fitex” (10 ml) ~ 130 rub.
The indicated prices are indicative, current at the time of writing (May 2021), may differ depending on the pet store/vet pharmacy and change significantly over time.
That's all. What sedatives have you used for dogs? What was the result? Share your experience in the comments below!
How to calm a scared dog
If the animal is very frightened, you need to take immediate action:
- Try to divert his attention to something interesting, something that he likes to do most. Give him his favorite toy, pet him, treat him to something tasty;
- Stress should always end with play or affection from the owner. Fear as an irritant will lose its power. The dog will know that an interesting activity or treat from the owner will follow;
- Pet the animal;
- The owner's attention is always flattering. Some animals prefer to be gently stroked, kissed on the nose, or scratched behind the ear. They love to press their whole body against their owner and calm down, not missing a single affectionate touch;
- More active dogs enjoy playing together, wrestling and fussing on the floor or on the sofa. They lightly bite their owner's hands to express their love, and then rush to lick the face, wagging their tail wildly;
- Some dog handlers believe that it is impossible to pet a frightened animal, so as not to create associations between fright and affection. It is better not to pay attention to the pet, then he will decide that he is not in danger.
Training
Some instructors believe that fearful behavior or stress is an indicator of insufficient training. It is necessary to work out all situations in which fear may arise. It could be ׃
- storm;
- going to the clinic;
- the sound of a passing car;
- children's screams;
- barking of other dogs, etc.
You need to teach the dog to perceive all these situations calmly and clearly follow commands. For example, while waiting in line to see a doctor, give the command “near”, then “sit”. This eliminates nervousness and an attempt to run away out of fear of people in white coats. Be sure to teach your dog an alternative behavior for every stress.
Currently reading:
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Pregnant, lactating and puppies
Too small four-legged pets and females who bear offspring sometimes react strangely to motherwort.
Puppies rarely need sedatives, because they are by nature active and mobile, and minor fright does not negatively affect their nervous system. Veterinarians generally do not recommend giving such drugs at this age.
The same situation is observed with lactating bitches: even herbal tinctures can cause premature birth or cause a dead fetus. This is a special condition in which the pet should be treated with the utmost care, and during this period it is better not to choose the dosage yourself, but to entrust this to an experienced veterinarian.
Instructions for use
Before using any drugs, even herbal ones, you should consult a specialist and carefully study the instructions.
All sedatives are aimed at relieving the symptoms of stress and preventing its occurrence. As a result of taking tablets or drops, the nervous system begins to function normally.
It is important to follow the dosage and frequency of use indicated in the instructions. Almost all drugs have a cumulative effect; it is advisable to give them first as a prophylaxis. This will help prevent your dog from becoming stressed.
If you have not used preventive medications, it does not matter. When stress occurs, a sedative is also given, but the result will not be noticeable immediately.
Contraindications
Before giving medicine to your four-legged friend, you should pay attention to contraindications. Even the safest natural remedies may have side effects and may not be suitable for certain pets.
The instructions for the “Stop Stress” drops directly indicate that their use is prohibited for diabetes, diseases of the genitourinary system, pregnant and lactating animals, and puppies under one year of age. The drug is allowed for males over one year old. “Fitex” is not recommended for use in dogs of the Greyhound breed, as well as in individuals with low blood pressure.
In addition, there is individual intolerance to drugs or individual substances contained in them.
Features of sedatives based on herbal components
Natural remedies differ from similar drugs based on phenibut and other potent drugs.
The following disadvantages of natural sedatives are identified:
- the effect does not appear immediately, but is cumulative, so herbal preparations are given over a long course (15–30 days);
- individual intolerance to the components is possible;
- the dose should be selected individually depending on the temperament, level of anxiety and other characteristics of the animal (for dogs - also depending on body weight).
The disadvantages are relative and usually appear when the owners do not consult a veterinarian, but give the medicine themselves.
Herbal sedatives have many more advantages:
- mild effect on the nervous system;
- do not cause addiction or dependence;
- there is no rebound and withdrawal syndrome (after stopping the course, stress symptoms do not return with a vengeance);
- do not cause side effects, do not burden the pancreas and liver;
- are easily excreted and are not deposited in tissues and organs;
- compatible with most pharmaceuticals.
At the same time, it is a mistake to think that natural medicines have no contraindications. They are not recommended for use in weakened animals with low blood pressure. If the animal is undergoing general anesthesia, the doctor must be notified that the dog is receiving sedatives.
After the first use of any drug, it is worth observing your pet. Individual intolerance cannot be predicted in advance.
What medicinal herbs can be given at home?
The safest remedies are considered to be medicinal herbs: valerian, motherwort, passionflower, Baikal skullcap, oats. Infusions and decoctions are prepared from them, which are given to dogs for 1-3 months.
Such products have a mild calming effect and help your pet cope with mild stress.
Strong sedatives should not be given to animals on their own. Many of them are sold strictly by prescription, have many contraindications and side effects, so before use it is necessary to examine the animal by a doctor. Plant-based sedatives are considered the safest.
Injections
One of the most controversial methods of contraception today. On the one hand, it really works, completely interrupting the estrus, but on the other, the likelihood of complications is too high and too much damage is caused to the body.
These medications cannot be used without examination and under the supervision of a veterinarian, as they have clear contraindications and a strict regimen of use.
The main advantages of injections:
- Complete cessation of estrus.
- Inability to get pregnant.
- Elimination of all symptoms of hunting.
However, this method has a huge number of disadvantages:
- Severe side effects with frequent use , including diseases of the genitourinary system, kidneys, and heart. Inflammatory process in the uterus and mammary glands. Violation of the animal's hormonal levels.
- Possible infertility . After several injections, or a drug administered incorrectly, the entire system changes, as a result of which already in the next heat, even with a successful start of pregnancy, the puppies will be born sick and crippled. But more often than not, the bitch simply loses the ability to have offspring.
- Aggressive behavior after the injection, caused by the introduction of hormones.
Most side effects cannot be treated. Therefore, veterinarians try to avoid using this method, preferring to persuade owners either to use gentler drugs or to castrate, which will be easier for the animal’s body.
Antidepressants
Most often, for dog owners who are concerned about various disorders, experts primarily recommend drugs from the group of antidepressants. This refers to serotonin reuptake inhibitors. They are prescribed to eliminate pathological conditions such as:
- fear of loneliness;
- aggression;
- anxiety states;
- panic disorders.
Although you need to understand that with the help of these drugs it will not be possible to eliminate acute panic attacks. The expected therapeutic effect occurs only with prolonged and systematic use. These drugs are considered the safest for dogs, although in some individuals they can cause certain gastrointestinal disorders. Among the drugs in this group, the following have proven themselves to be effective:
- "Prozac";
- "Solax";
- "Fontex";
- "Ladosse".
Sources:
- https://fb.ru/article/88778/kakoe-uspokoitelnoe-dlya-sobak-luchshe
- https://kotsobaka.com/sobaki/bolezni-i-lechenie-s/uspokoitelnoe-s.html
- https://zoosecrets.ru/kak-uspokoit-sobaku-oshejnik-muzyka-v-poezdke-mashine-nochyu-pered-veterinarom/
- https://dajlapu.com/uspokoitelnoe-dlya-sobak-spisok-sredstv-otzyvy/
- https://vetbober.ru/uspokoitelnye-sredstva-sobak-stop-stress/
- https://zveri.guru/zhivotnye/sobaki/lechenie/kak-podobrat-uspokoitelnoe-sredstvo-v-dorogu-dlya-sobak.html
What to replace it with?
Motherwort is considered far from the only sedative option for animals. If for some reason your pet is prohibited from giving such a medicine, then the famous tincture or tablets can be replaced with an equally effective copy:
Valerian
The most common sedative herb that has a sedative and relaxing effect on animals.
This infusion should be given to the dog immediately before a trip, during a thunderstorm, or before visiting a veterinary clinic. The veterinarian selects the required dose individually for each animal: usually it is from 5 to 25 drops, depending on the weight of the animal.
Important! According to reviews, valerian does not help aggressive dogs, so they require a stronger drug, perhaps even medication.
Passionflower
This plant helps with dogs, who often experience jealousy and aggression when stressed. There is a separate type of animal on which valerian has a reverse stimulating effect. For this category, a light mixture of natural ingredients is ideal and will not cost the owner much.
Skullcap
Another herb with a calming effect that has a lasting healing effect. A tincture based on skullcap copes with the most serious situations: acute and chronic nervous tension, fear, trembling and restlessness of the pet. In parallel with the central task, this drug relieves pain after injuries or operations in the dog.
Oats
Intended for a narrower range of dogs: it is often recommended to be given to exhausted or aging individuals. Thanks to the rich content of proteins, microelements and vitamins, this drug supports the dog’s health well in stressful situations. At the same time, an infusion of oat inflorescences well restores the animal’s well-being after anesthesia.
Features of application
The convenient form of the Sex Barrier allows you to choose tablets or drops for oral administration. The medicine should be given at the first signs of sexual arousal, applying drops directly to the tongue or with food or treats. The tablets can be crushed and added to food or given using an introducer - a tablet dispenser.
The daily dose should be divided into two doses and given to the pet in the morning and evening feedings. The manufacturer indicates in the instructions the recommended doses of the drug, they depend on the weight of the pet:
- less than 5 kg – 2 drops per day;
- from 5 to 10 kg – 2-4 every 12 hours;
- 10-30 kg – 5-8 drops twice a day;
- more than 30 kg – 18 or more, at the rate of 1 drop for every next 5 kg of weight.
The following dosage is established for tablets:
- animals weighing up to 5 kg – 1 tablet per day;
- 5-10 kg – 2-3 tablets;
- 10-30 kg – 3-4 tablets;
- more than 30 kg - at the rate of 1 tablet for every 10 kg of body weight.
The Sex Barrier should be used until the animal completely stops sexual arousal. The standard course duration is 5-7 days. If the medicine is used to shift estrus, you can give the medicine in a course of 5-7 days 1-2 weeks before the expected date of estrus. This way you can achieve a shift of 20-40 days.
As a contraceptive to prevent unwanted pregnancy, the medicine is given once. A double dose should be given to the female no later than 2 days after accidental mating.
Important!
Young male dogs with increased sexual excitability are given a double daily dose on the first day of treatment.
Veterinarian recommendations
Remember that the use of the above drugs, whether medications or herbal tinctures, must be justified. That is, in any case, before giving your pet tablets, drops or tinctures, you should consult a doctor.
The use of each individual drug must be justified, and most importantly, the drug must be completely compatible with the animal’s body.
Therefore, a specialized doctor must diagnose your pet, and also identify what side effects the use of certain medications may cause.
What sleeping pills are suitable for a long journey?
Transporting an animal by car is a very convenient and fairly fast way of transportation, but it is also a lot of stress for the pet. In this regard, it is recommended to give anti-stress medications to pets immediately before traveling. And if it does not have the desired effect, then you can give a small amount of sleeping pills.
When transporting an animal, it is recommended to use short-acting sleeping pills. The dose of medication depends on the duration of the trip and your pet’s resistance to shock and stressful situations. If you decide to inject with sleeping pills, it is better to trust a specialist. You can, of course, do this at home, but you need the appropriate experience.
To transport a small pet while asleep, we recommend using the following medications:
- "Nalbuphine" - intramuscularly 0.2 ml;
- "Relanium" - intramuscularly 0.3 ml;
- "Butorphanol" - intramuscularly 0.3 ml;
- "Vetranquil" - 0.15 ml subcutaneously.
After the animal falls asleep, it is necessary to provide it with a comfortable position, give it access to air, and also cover it with a blanket.
