We have a Rhodesian ridgeback mix who is very well behaved until we have to trim his nails or bring him to the vet for anything. He gets really anxious, and even with medication (fluoxetine at 60mg a day), it doesn’t seem to help much. He also gets sedatives for vet visits, but even at high doses, it only calms him a little. We were advised to visit a behaviorist, but it’s pretty expensive and far away. Any other medication options I should ask about?
I feel you, my dog gets so worked up at the vet too. Fluoxetine didn’t help us either. Have you tried Clomicalm? I heard it works better for anxiety behaviors beyond just separation anxiety.
Brigitta said:
I feel you, my dog gets so worked up at the vet too. Fluoxetine didn’t help us either. Have you tried Clomicalm? I heard it works better for anxiety behaviors beyond just separation anxiety.
Oh wow, never heard of Clomicalm. What’s the difference between that and fluoxetine?
@Lyana
Clomicalm works on neurotransmitters instead of just serotonin like fluoxetine. It’s supposed to cover a broader range of anxiety issues, not just separation anxiety.
I had similar issues with my dog. Clomicalm worked a lot better than fluoxetine for him. It might take a few weeks to kick in, but it’s worth trying if the fluoxetine isn’t working.
Drusilla said:
I had similar issues with my dog. Clomicalm worked a lot better than fluoxetine for him. It might take a few weeks to kick in, but it’s worth trying if the fluoxetine isn’t working.
Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll definitely ask the vet about it.
I was also told to switch meds for my anxious dog, but I’m not sure how to transition. How do I switch from fluoxetine to something else without messing things up?
madisonwilson said:
I was also told to switch meds for my anxious dog, but I’m not sure how to transition. How do I switch from fluoxetine to something else without messing things up?
You need to taper the fluoxetine dose over 3-4 weeks, slowly reducing it, and then start the new med at a low dose. You should definitely consult with your vet to make sure you do it safely.
madisonwilson said:
I was also told to switch meds for my anxious dog, but I’m not sure how to transition. How do I switch from fluoxetine to something else without messing things up?
Got it, thanks! That sounds a little complicated but I guess it’s necessary.
Just an FYI, make sure to monitor for any side effects when transitioning meds. Some dogs have reactions to the change, so keeping track of how Taco is doing during the switch will be helpful!
Wow, I didn’t realize switching meds was that detailed. I’ll make sure to keep an eye on my dog too when we try something new.