Melatonin for Dog Anxiety During Thunderstorms

Anxiety-ridden dog

Thunderstorms can be a source of intense anxiety for dogs. It is considered to be a noise phobia that can lead to a progressively worse situation. Resolution for the fear is a necessary for your dog's health.

Milder Cases

There are varying levels of severity of anxiety that is produced in dogs during thunderstorms, They can be mildly affected and just appear fearful, shake and, perhaps, hide, and not want to go outdoors temporarily. The best means of treatment is to help the dog feel comfortable in its favorite safe area. It can be followed up with positive reinforcement in the form of a treat.

More Severe Cases

The more severe cases can manifest in the form of destructive behavior, as your dog tries to break through the walls and windows, and upset furniture with uncontrolled urinating. Unfortunately, when they are at such an intense level of panic, your dog can potentially hurt itself while trying to escape from the frightening sounds.

Melatonin

Melatonin is an effective, safe option as an aid to desensitize your dog to the sound of thunderstorms. It is known for its ability to induce sleep while lowering hypertension and reducing stress.

Doses

Melatonin does not require a prescription, but it is wise to have the recommendation from your veterinarian before beginning melatonin treatment. A smaller dog can have .5 to 1 mg every 8 hours while a larger dog can have 3 to 9 mg.

Precautions

Melatonin that is combined with corticosteroids and oxidase inhibitors can cause possible adverse effects. Melatonin has been proven to have had successful results in 75 percent of dogs when given at the onset of a thunderstorm.

References

• Melatonin to Help Your Dog With Anxiety
• Dog Behavior