Medication and Separation Anxiety

As a society, we've long grappled with a stigma surrounding the use of medication to manage anxiety, though thankfully, attitudes have been evolving in recent years. This shift extends not only to humans but also to our dogs. In this blog post, we'll explore the use of anxiety medication in the context of separation anxiety in dogs. However, it's essential to clarify upfront that while I can provide information, I'm not a veterinarian. Determining whether your dog could benefit from anxiety medication while working with a trainer on separation anxiety is a decision best made through a thoughtful dialogue between you and your veterinarian, taking into account your pet's individual needs and circumstances.

Why Supplement Training with Medication?

First and foremost, it's crucial to understand that the aim of supplemental medication alongside professional separation anxiety training in dogs is just that – supplemental. The medication serves to enable the dog to focus more effectively and respond better to the training provided. It is important to note that medication aids in the training being provided; it doesn’t work in place of it.

Allow me to share a personal story to illustrate this point. I, too, have battled anxiety for many years. At first, I hesitated to consider medication due to uncertainty, but I came to understand that avoiding treatment was no longer an option. After consulting my doctor and starting medication, I experienced a profound sense of relief that transformed my daily life. Within a few months, I noticed significant improvements in my ability to focus, manage stress, and engage fully in daily activities and in my personal relationships. To say it’s been beneficial for me is an understatement; it’s been life changing. In hindsight, my sole regret is not starting daily medication use sooner.

Addressing Concerns

You may wonder about the safety and potential personality changes associated with anxiety medication for pets. Rest assured, when prescribed under veterinary guidance, these medications are safe. Regular follow-up appointments ensure the medication's efficacy and your pet's well-being. It's important to note that anxiety medication should not alter your pet's fundamental personality; rather, it allows them to thrive as their authentic selves. Should you observe any concerning changes, consulting your vet for adjustments is prudent and normal.

Cost Efficiency and Considerations

While separation anxiety training is often a lengthy and costly endeavor, medication can advance progress. Faster improvements in alone time are frequently observed in dogs receiving medication, aligning with our goal of helping clients achieve their objectives efficiently. Moreover, medication use need not be permanent; discussions with your veterinarian can guide the process of tapering off medication once goals are met.

Navigating Alternative Remedies

While natural remedies and supplements may tout benefits for separation anxiety in dogs, their efficacy and safety are questioned due to limited scientific data and regulatory oversight. These alternatives can be costly and lack conclusive evidence, potentially prolonging the training process and impeding progress. This is an important consideration to keep in mind, especially given the data-backed evidence supporting the effectiveness of prescribed anxiety medications from veterinarians.

I'm not ruling out alternative over-the-counter remedies; rather, I'm encouraging you to thoroughly consider all factors before deciding on supplemental aids to use alongside separation anxiety training.

In Conclusion

I encourage you to consult a veterinary behaviorist or your personal veterinarian if your dog experiences separation anxiety. Delaying medication until symptoms worsen can compromise your pet's well-being and lengthen the training process even further. Embracing medication for separation anxiety carries minimal risk and offers myriad benefits, enhancing your dog's quality of life. Thus, it warrants serious consideration in your pet's care plan.

For further insights into separation anxiety in dogs, explore our main page. We also offer complimentary discovery calls for those eager to delve deeper into our training packages.

Everdog Training is located in Boston, MA, but accepts separation anxiety clients both nationwide and worldwide.