Possible Cure For Thunder Scared Dogs

[Loraine]

One of my US friends sent me this link - very interesting:

http://www.brighthub.com/health/alternativ...cles/21796.aspx

There are cases where dogs in thunderstorms will go out of control and destroy furniture or attempt jumping out of a window to escape their fears. Some may become so stressed that they develop diarrhea, which is not a good thing when they are stuck in the house.

If you have a scared dog that requires more than love and attention, there is good news. Give melatonin a try.

Melatonin for Dogs

Melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland, has been used by humans for years as a sleep aid. However, melatonin for dogs reduce stress

without causing drowsiness.

Melatonin affects the level of dopamine and serotonin (the neurotransmitters most involved in behavior) in the dog's brain. It also increases a hormone (cortisol) which helps the body manage stress.

According to Linda Aronson, DVM, a Massachusetts-based veterinarian and pet behavior specialist, melatonin for dogs is effective. She has treated over a thousand scared dogs with melatonin for years with great success and no side effects. About 80% of her patients showed results in 10-15 minutes and, better yet, Dr. Aronson says "I've had dogs that no longer needed melatonin because they learned to overcome their fears while taking it."

Melatonin for dogs is safe, but Dr. Aronson does recommend using plain melatonin tablets only. Do not use sublingual, capsule, or time release forms.

Melatonin dosage for dogs:

under 10 lbs, give 1 milligram (dosage can vary - it is best to check with your veterinarian)

10-25 lbs, give 1.5 milligrams

25-100 lbs, give 3 milligrams

over 100 lbs, 3 milligrams is often enough, but you can give up to 6 milligrams

It is best to give melatonin 15-30 minutes before an anticipated thunderstorm. If you are going to be away for the day and storms are predicted in the forecast, you can give the melatonin before leaving. The effects are said to last several hours. You can give up to 3 doses a day (every 6-8 hours).

It is rare, but some dogs may experience the opposite effect and become more excitable instead of relaxed. It wouldn't hurt to try it out when there is no thunderstorm.

Besides treating scared dogs in thunderstorms, melatonin can also help with other loud sounds like fireworks. It is best to keep them away from firework displays if possible, but if not, give them a dose before the show.

Melatonin for dogs should be given with caution when a medical condition exists. Consult with your veterinarian first.

Read more: http://www.brighthub.com/health/alternativ...x#ixzz0nroHAnwA