Dog Tranquilizer Pills

Dog tranquilizer pills may be prescribed by the vet to solve problems caused by dogs that are too aggressive, hyperactive or that experience fear or anxiety. Tranquilizer pills may be effective, but they shouldn't be administered for a long period of time, as they may have side effects. Behavioral problems in dogs can usually be solved with training. Tranquilizers should be only a temporary solution.

Conditions that Require Tranquilizers

Tranquilizer pills in canines will be used in a few circumstances including:

  • After surgery, to relieve pain
  • Dogs that experience fear (i.e., triggered by lightning)
  • Hyperactive dogs that cannot be calmed down (there are a few dog breeds that are more likely to display a hyperactive behavior, such as Jack Russels)
  • Dogs that suffer from stress and anxiety
  • Aggressive dogs
  • Noisy dogs
  • To suppress hormonal activity, especially during the heat cycle when dogs tend to be more active and uncontrollable

Tranquilizer pills in dogs may be used occasionally, but it is not recommended to get these pills on a regular basis or to get a lifelong treatment of tranquilizer pills in your pet.

Common Tranquilizers for Dogs

Some of the most commonly utilized tranquilizers in dogs are:

  • Valium
  • Diazepam
  • Acepromazine

The tranquilizers should be prescribed by the vet and administered accordingly. Don't give more pills to your dog only because they seem not to have any effect. Visit the vet and if need be, he will adjust the dosage. Dogs shouldn't be administered human tranquilizer pills.

Tranquilizer Side Effects

Most tranquilizer pills used in dogs will cause a series of side effects such as:

  • Sleepiness
  • Change of personality and behavior
  • Lack of activity and interest in activities
  • Confusion
  • Increased thirst
  • Increased appetite/lack of appetite

Some dogs may not experience severe side effects. However, if the tranquilizer pills are administered for a long period of time, the side effects are very likely to occur and get worse in time.

Alternative Treatment

Dog behavioral problems may always be solved with proper training. Even though the training may take more time, the dog can be taught not to be aggressive or hyper excited. The training may also be accompanied by a few easy techniques such as the five-minute time out, which can solve the problem of an excited dog and train him to behave in an acceptable manner.

Anxiety and fear may be removed with suitable treatment. The root of the problem should be identified first. The dog may experience fear of different noises, thunder, flashing lights or may also be stressed by a change in his life (a change in owner, in the home or the environment). There are several therapies including counseling, training, aromatherapy or alternative herbal treatments that will all be effective in reducing the dog's fear and anxiety. The tranquilizer pills should only be administered as a last resort, if no other methods work.

 

Comments