Xanax for Dogs – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Alternatives
Date Published: 2019-04-28
Date Updated: 2019-04-28
Anxiety is a scary condition to be diagnosed with, especially if you’re a dog and don’t understand why you are feeling these mental and physical symptoms.
With that being said, we’re going to inform you on the anxiety medication known as Xanax; if you don’t like what you’ve read about the medication, don’t get too worried just yet, as we do have an alternative option towards the end.
What is Xanax & what can it be used for?
Xanax, generically known as Alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine primarily used to treat anxiety. Typically, Xanax works by altering the natural chemicals in the brain to calm down the nerves.
Though Xanax is not entirely safe to give your dog, it’s not uncommon for your vet to prescribe it. If this medication is given to your dog for a lengthy period, there is the potential for addiction.
As stated above, Xanax is generally prescribed to treat signs and symptoms of anxiety. More specifically speaking, this medication can help alleviate issues associated with the following list of ailments:
- Post-traumatic stress associated with abuse
- Phobias
- Separation anxiety
- Panic attacks
- General anxiety
- Muscle tenseness
- Stimulation of appetite
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Seizure management
- Depression
What is the correct dosage to administer to my dog?
Dosage for Xanax should never be measured without the help of a veterinarian, as it is a controlled substance that can spawn addiction. What’s more is that you should never give your dog this anxiety medication without knowing the root of his or her anxiety problems; for instance, more may be prescribed depending on the situation your dog is currently facing.
On average, Xanax is prescribed anywhere from 0.005 mg to 2 mg per pound. The breed and size of dog are also taken into consideration.
As for timing, the medication is generally given to dogs every 6 to 12 hours for the best beneficial impact.
Are there side effects associated with Xanax?
There are side effects associated with any medication prescribed by your veterinarian. The following is a list of the most common when taking Xanax:
- Fatigue and sluggishness throughout the day
- Clumsiness and loss of motor control
- Aggressiveness
- Overexcitement
- Physical dependency – when trying to wean your dog off of Xanax, he or she may exhibit signs such as vomiting, shaking, and sensitivity
- Increased appetite
- Liver problems
If you are concerned that your dog may have overdosed on Xanax, be mindful of these overdose symptoms:
- sedation, exhibiting signs of a coma
- confusion
- Mental inability to perform routine functions
- Slow reaction time
If your dog has been diagnosed with muscular weakness, liver or kidney disease, or glaucoma, avoid giving him or her Xanax entirely.
Is there an alternative I can turn to?
If you’re the dog owner that would rather lean towards a natural supplement to help treat your dog’s anxiety, go with CBD oil.
Keep in mind, CBD oil has no trace of THC in it, therefore providing your dog with anxiety relief while ensuring he or she does not get ‘high.’ Not only will this magical solution subside your dog’s symptoms of anxiety, but it will also act as a mood stabilizer, amongst other things.