Anxiety in dogs can be just as complicated as in people. It can actually be more difficult to handle because the dogs can’t talk to you and tell you what’s wrong. From separation anxiety to sudden anxiety disorder, the minds of our lovely companions can be a worrying place. Miniature breeds, such as Pugs, follow us around and are highly dependent on our emotional support, which is why they are often susceptible to anxiety disorders.
We were recently introduced to an anxiety problem with our pug, Martini, who eventually became unbearable. Martini has always been very sticky when it comes to my wife and me. Separation anxiety is something we usually only worry about when we’re on vacation because one of us is home most of the day.
Martini’s situation changed when he developed a sudden anxiety disorder. She would get into “actual fights” with her Shih-Tzu sister, Bella, which would result in biting and sometimes blood. It occurred when the Martini started with unexpected sounds, such as a knock on the door, dropped objects, heavy storms, or barking dogs. When this suddenly happened, she would attack her sister violently! She would also get jealous if my wife was holding Bella and she would attack her sister too. Not only would Bella be injured, but we would also be in the same proximity.
Martini’s emotional problem began to rule our house as my wife and I walked on eggshells trying not to make sudden noises etc. It was not a way to live. Finally, after the worst fight we had ever seen, we decided it was time to act. We decided to speak to our vet first and discuss our situation.
Dr. Wagner has been our respected vet for the past two years and has his own Boston Terrier son. He gave us several options and suggested that we give Martini an anti-anxiety medication, Amitriptyline (10mg) and now we give it to him twice a day. After doing some research, I found out that this drug works by increasing neurotransmitter levels and it was once prescribed to humans. The neurotransmitter “serotonin” seems to be responsible for helping to combat anxiety.
Another option our vet gave us was the use of dog appeasing pheromone spray (DAP). This clear, odorless spray prevents fear or stress-related behavior in dogs by simulating the pheromones a female dog secretes to comfort her pups. 8-10 sprays of liquid in the dogs common area seems to help the situation, but we use it sparingly as it is expensive.
In general, the situation in our home is day and night compared to what it used to be. Martini is occasionally startled, but when he does he doesn’t attack; in fact, we haven’t had a fight since. We don’t know if he will always take the medication, but the medication is a small price to pay for the peace, harmony and happiness of our pets. Our Pug will never be perfect, but that’s part of the reason we love her so much!