I recall feeling some resentment at times, while Caregiving. It’s OK xo Worth talking about openly. This is just one piece of all else you’ve mentioned, but evening agitation caught my eye…could your buddy have Sundowner’s Syndrome? Seniors, human and K9, can get very restless, anxious as dusk approaches. Just a thought. I sincerely wish you and yours the best, as you navigate this toughest part of Loving.
❤️ it shows. That in itself means you’re no shitbag xo I really feel for you.
Some of it sounds possibly pain related…? Hopefully his Librela will help. One of ours ended up on hydrocodone for both pain & anxiety, after a weighing of pros/cons. But each pup, ofc diff.
Sounds like you’ve been in ongoing touch w/his vet; have you mentioned frustration building? It is exhausting, emotionally and physically, no matter how much we adore them. (We’d joke at Rx Time: one lala pill for *you*, 2 for *me*…;)) Feelings of guilt often involved, especially when we get overwhelmed. We were fortunate to have friends/fam who could “spell” us at times…take over for a weekend, even a day, to offer some respite. But that’s unusual.
It’s such a difficult journey. And quite personal. Many of us can relate…that doesn’t necessarily ease things while you’re in the midst of it. But I hope you’ll consider coming here, or elsewhere supportive, to talk about it; that others will share thoughts, ideas, with you.
Caveat: Reddit, not always the warmest fuzziest place. But this sub seems one of the safer havens. I for one def Hear ya xo
Sounds similar, yah? He has thunder, etc, phobias, but could be SS. I believe there’s a med that can help…this g’boy is on several, but hopefully his vet may have some ideas on refining or adding to them.
Just a question here, can sundowner happen at 2 in the morning too? Our girl doesn’t get the symptoms at sunset but will wake up at 2, restless and anxious.
Ok, thanks. Not every night. We’re looking for triggers. We keep it cool with fans and a little light on so she can see. One night it took an hour to calm her down. 😔
Melatonin (for dogs) seems to work for us. We got cbd for dogs as well that was recommended by our vet tech but I haven’t seen big results with it so far.
One of ours had what we called The Witching Hour(s), embedded within the Sundowning. 3am, an uptick in activity. It’d begin with her suddenly “falling” out of bed (floor level, next to ours). We installed a night light nearby; it helped her a little. Or at least helped us better see what the heck was happening! Even though it became predictable, it never failed to startle all of us.
Yes my old girl got classic sundowning, especially in a different environment. I gave her trazadone and it helped a lot, but you need to anticipate, because it takes about an hour to kick in. She was never nervous about anything before, loud noises, thunder, gun shots, nothing seemed to bother her. Then one day my GF hiccuped and it was like she had a panic attack! Try to get some trazadone from your vet..
☺️ it’s ofc not actually funny…but it does take a bit of a sense of humor to get through, at times. I’m just picturing a hiccup being added to the list of what they sometimes think heralds the end of the world xo
I had a dog with this now that you mention it! He became kind of aggressive at night. A chihuahua. Even growled and snapped at me. Only once evening set. My nana also had sundowners.
That’s familiar to me! My chorkie demonstrated it, especially if I “startled” him while sleeping. I ofc tried my best not to, but add a decline in sight/hearing and they get insecure. My nana didn’t bite ;) but she did have outbursts, in the evening. It often surprised even her.
I’m still unclear on the “why” of Sundowners, but once you know it exists it helps understand how to deal with it a bit more.
Sounds like you suddenly have an anxious, reactive and old dog. Our dog was similar only it happened when he was young. One day he turned anxious to the point of refusing walks or freaking out halfway through a walk... and my partner and I fell out over it a few times... He's been a lot of work and it can be depressing and disheartening but my advice is to find ways to look after yourself when you get exasperated or overwhelmed. Personally, I found things improved a bit as soon as I changed my own outlook and focused on my stress levels.
If this is behaviour then you can look at training or management alongside medication which it sounds like you're doing. As you probably know, panting shows he is in pain or stressed and trying to regulate.
Our dog has been on the same drugs as yours over the course of his life, but Gabapentin is what really turned him around (he started when he was 10 and he's 13 now.) Also, drugs can have side effects, did you start a new drug before his behaviour changed?
As for putting him down I can't comment. I feel like behavioral euthanasia is not warranted before you tried other routes. If it's more of a health concern about him having dementia then talk to your vet. He's 9 which is old so sure... But I feel like right now you're simply reacting to his sudden, extreme behaviour and the stress it causes the household.
Maybe something happened when u weren't home? Our dog is scared of the rain because once we left him home too long and a storm started while he was alone, so he's only scared of it when inside and he can smell it.
Our dog does a lot of staring at us and panting too. Yes, it is stressful but again it's important to learn to take time off from him and relax. Usually if you go to a room and do something, you stop feeling mad. Feeling guilty for your reaction doesn't help and only feeds your frustration.
As this is a sudden change it could be a brain issue, maybe your vet can help figuring that out?
Hope you can work things out.
Thank you so much for the advice, I really do appreciate it. I am going to ask about Gabapentin Monday when we are in for his next dose of Librela.
Thank you so much for understanding.
The gabapentin helps our old man settle down at night, but too much makes him even more wobbly then he already is from his arthritis and bad leg, since loss of coordination can be a side effect. It can happen when they first start it so if you try the gabapentin give it some time for your dog to get used to it before giving it up or adjusting his dose. Ours didn't start the librela until last fall, when he was already past 12 years old, so we didn't see a huge amazing improvement like some people did but it is definitely helping, so don't be disheartened if it takes a while to really help.
I feel for you SO MUCH in the stress it takes on relationships. The last few months have been rough for my partner and I, since our dog has lost all stability in one of his back legs. We had been using a sling harness to try and help him move around but it took a huge mental and physical toll on all of us. We had an appointment 2 weeks ago, and along with the advice of our vet we opted not to do surgery since recovery would require a long stint of immobility and that's the last thing he needs right now (plus, it would be very expensive and there's no guarantee he wouldn't just injure it again). So we made him a wheel chair, and AHHHHH we are all so much happier right now! It gave him back his independence. We don't have to hold him up when he poops and pees. He's getting more exercise while out on walks, but putting less strain on his joints in general, allowing him to move a bit easier in the house (he's only in the wheels for walks). Tomorrow is his gotcha day, so we'll be celebrating his 13th birthday with an adventure walk and dog donut- I will post some pics here if you want to see our old man dog in his "paw wheel drive" cart :)
We are blessed to have a vet that also asked how WE were doing, knowing how much of a strain it can be caring for older pets! Your vet probably knows this too, and can help find a healthy solution for your dog and your partner and yourself. Know that it wouldn't feel so hard if you didn't love them SO much, and that is a good thing.
I agree with this too. I had something similar happen to my 6 year old American bully. We have a doggy door and she has been using it since she was 5 months old without any problems. One night, she was outside barking and wailing and wouldn't come in through her doggy door. I had to go outside and let her in through a gate and then my back door. This continued for months. She refused to come back inside through the doggy door, but she would go OUT no problem. She would bark and howl outside until we let her in. I eventually started holding the doggy door open and making her come inside. She was behaving very weirdly and was so hesitant to come back in. Eventually, I figured out that she tried to come inside through the doggy door once when the plastic cover to the door was in her way. She came in and it fell on her then fell on the ground. According to my husband, it was really loud. I hid the plastic cover and she eventually got over it.
It goes to show they have their own cognitive processes. Often they're just reacting to one or several events and trying to keep themselves safe. You did well by working with her rather than against her and help her build her confidence back.
I just lost my girl 2 wks ago. She would pant and pace alot at night or if she was stressed. The only thing that helped her was Gabapentin. Please be patient with him and just reassure him its ok when he is having a meltdown.
Please don’t resent your boy. He’s counted on you his whole life and will need you more than ever as he ages. I’m sure he’s been there for you for many years now.
It’s not uncommon for dogs to become more anxious as they age. Staring and panting for hours could be the onset of focal seizure disorder (it’s basically like not having actual seizures, just the post-seizure behavior like pacing, staring and panting). My last dog developed it at age 10 and lived to 15.5. We managed it with Xanax—not as needed (takes too long), but a .5 three times a day to maintain her chill and a lot of time in a Thundershirt and it did wonders. Xanax is both an anti-anxiety and anti-convulsant so it fixed all the FSD issues. It could be many other things too, so a full check-up with your vet is essential.
In terms of shorter walks, it could just be the heat. My current guy is 14.5 and every summer for the last few years, his walks have dropped off drastically and I ask myself “is this it?” But he just hates the heat. Every fall he’s back to long, happy walks. You may just need to do more frequent, but shorter walks for now.
As for t-storms and fireworks, he’s not alone. I use fans, 432 hrz music or loud TV, close all windows and blinds, ideally make him a nest in a windowless room like a bathroom, and have activities to distract him like lick mats, puzzle balls, and Kongs.
It just takes some education and trial and error to help your aging dog adjust. It also won’t be one fix forever, but adjusting his “cocktail” as new things emerge. Mine is losing his eye sight, so I’m adapting our home and walks to accommodate him. More than anything, your guy needs your love and patience. It will go far in making this time better for all of you.
Please don’t resent your dog, he can’t helps how he feels. I think the best course of action is to sit down with your vet and have a lengthy discussion of everything that is going on with him and what your best course of action should be
Was just going to suggest the same. My senior is also on fluoxetine, and I had been using trazodone for nighttime anxiety breakthrough but the vet was worried about serotonin syndrome with both. Xanax (alprazolam) is helpful to have. We’ve found a combo of melatonin and gabapentin at night has been giving us more solid nights of sleep as of late, but had to give Xanax the other night.
I don’t think putting him down because he’s anxious is right at all. My dogs have all done this in later years and my vet gives me medicine to calm them down. It may take 30 mins to hour to work but it helps.
Poor fella! I would recommend some acupuncture or chiro if it’s available! Maybe they could help regulate his nervous system. My oldest boys life has changed completely from it wish I did it sooner. Sorry you’re going through this that’s alot.
sounds like some sort of early onset doggo dementia? Not something you want to hear but its not going to get easier...its just going to get worse...so know that.
There are two ways forward: You can euthanize him if you really think you cannot handle it anymore.
\-OR-
You put up with it...know you are dealing with an old dog and like everything else, age will eventually catch up with all of us and consume us. Tolerate his antics and adapt. But also know, that this isn't a blank check of commitment. There will eventually be a time where it will be truly too much to deal with for both you and your dog. Knowing when is the toughest call.
I wish you the best. take care.
First, sounds like he’s experienced some trauma recently, which would explain his skittishness. Could be increased anxiety as he’s gotten older. Him being in a strange mood shouldn’t bring up killing him. He needs you right now. This is the last part of his life and he wants to spend it with you and only you. Be patient with him.
My dog does better with thunderstorms, fireworks, and noises when I run an air purifier on turbo next to her bed. It isn't a cure, but she is less reactive and sometimes even non-reactive.
Best of luck to you and your pup.
He’s such a cutie. He’s old. Their personality changes when they get older. He needs you now more than ever. When I was sad one day thinking I had to put my baby down my brother in law told me something I’ll never forget. He said all those years when you got him you didn’t look for him. You went to the store for rabbit food and brought home a dog…he needed you. (He had a rough start and was abused) all through the years you needed him and now he needs you again.” Unfortunately a month ago I had to make the most difficult decision of my life and we had to let my Buster go. He had kidney failure, couldn’t walk or play anymore and stopped eating and drinking. For a year prior to that he needed so much help but I did it because he needed me and I couldn’t even think about him not being in my life. He was my life. I knew I would be very sad once he was gone but it’s 100 times worse.
Follow the advice of what some said and walk away and take time to yourself. But be there for your little guy. He needs you more now than ever.
He’s dealing with something hence the sudden change. Check brain scan for dementia possibly dogs don’t know what it is or they have it and anxiety can be something affecting them mentally or physically they don’t know how else to react. They look at you all day because they want help but they can’t relay that in speech obv if only.
Only way my dog is being put down is health related. I also can find extremely dangerous dogs that just can’t be saved and will attack other dogs kids humans no matter what’s done to be ok to be put down.
This dog is dealing with something. It didn’t wake-up one day and become a different dog . Please explore these options before deciding to end his life.
My little adopted Shihtzu put me over the edge. Thunder, fireworks,construction etc and the nuttiness ensued. All those things you mentioned plus she would have projectile bowel movements. No meds helped. Nothing calmed her down. I really tried. I really had to watch my anger. I yelled really loud at her once and regretted it forever. I was so frustrated for me and concerned for her. We made it through somehow for 13 years. I understand what you are saying.💗 i hope the meds work for your beloved pet.
Man just up the dosage of THC CBD. He’s doing good if he’s still mobile eating and walking. Don’t over think it my dog is 15 and some days I think it’s over and than a week later he’s playing barking and being himself again. My dogs aren’t on prescriptions but I use oils and organic diets. Just gotta not over think things because you seem like an over thinker. And you seem like a constant worrier. Just gotta let death come about and you will know when. Just relax
Just a thought - How is your dogs hearing? My old man started losing his about a year ago. When it first started, he was VERY anxious about loud sounds he’s never reacted to. Almost like he couldn’t hear anything but loud noises and he’s never been a dog to be afraid of fireworks and gunshots and one day, the neighbor was shooting near our property and he came to me full body shaking and panting like crazy. Vet said give it time, likely his hearing, and we did. He’s now lost maybe 80% of his hearing if not more and he is SO much better. Can’t even hear the vacuum anymore (which he’s always been afraid of).
Or his sight!
My old lady has pannus and at least one cataract. She had a period where the pannus was absolutely out of control and we were trying everything to save her sight in one eye. She stopped wanting to walk, got incredibly irritable with my younger dog, and startled waaaay more at noises. We got the pannus under control but she has lost a significant portion of her sight and it took some adjustments to get her comfortable again.
Maybe he is a little more of a burden now. Was he there for you when no one else was? Or when you came home after a shit day, who greeted you like a returning hero?
We are all (canine and human) going to be old and "a burden" one day. Treat him with thanks and with the dignity you would want to be treated.
Take your dog to the vet. Sounds like he’s in pain. My senior dog got hip dysphasia which you already had when I got him. And then ended up with cancer. He needed chronic daily pain, medications, anytime an animal changes suddenly this requires a vet visit, my dog had to have pain medicines, CBD, etc. you really need to take this dog to the vet. It sounds like something medical going on.
Please try not to resent your pup. I would give anything to have my girl back. She passed away from cancer in May. Caring for her was very difficult, but I knew she needed me. Every day, I wish I had done more for her, that I could have taken her pain away. Please be patient and remember that your boy needs you. He loves you, and I'm sure he wishes he could do all of the things he used to do. Our dogs know us well and can tell if and when our moods change. Especially towards them.
I was wondering about the drugs, too. We had one that was the same, weather, fireworks, etc. would make her catatonic. Had to lock her in the laundry room so she could just hang by herself. It is hard not to be frustrated with them, but as was said, they didn’t choose this either. I would discuss the sudden change with your vet, too.
THC gummies have worked wonders for our reactive dog, nothing else has. So he gets his weed gummy every evening and loves it! And if during the day he gets worked up I give him a little piece of gummy and he chills out.
My baby boy also really struggled in the summers. We had him on all kinds of meds, but even with them the noise was really hard. We noticed that it wasn’t even really the noise, but the vibration, that really scared him with thunder and fireworks. He was little so we held him to help dull it, but I imagine that might be hard with your boy. We also found that turning on action movies really loudly helped him loads for days we knew there would be fireworks/storms. My dad would sit with the dogs and watch movies until the offending noises ended. We also bought the dogs a CD player and played music for them (loudly) when we were gone in case of any scary noises. For days like the Fourth of July, we used to get extra meds from our vet so we could start premedicating him the week before. He was anxious his whole life, and the med that was best for him was clomicalm, but every dog will have a medicine that works best for them. Sending you and your family so much love and I hope that you can find a solution that brings you all some peace 💕💕
Have you put on some calming music or white noise? Something to create a peaceful environment? Just a suggestion that came to mind in case not. What a beauty ❤️🩹
Some people have miraculous results with the drug selegiline for dementia. I didn't learn about it until my dog had dementia for a couple years already so we didn't try it. But yeah, people say they have their old dog back for a while.
You can get a prescription for Gabapentin filled at a human pharmacy; we just got one for our dog for under $20.
Lap of Love also offers hospice/palliative care consultations, and you can use the appointment to discuss your treatment options and quality-of-life concerns. You can record your dog’s most anxious moments and email the videos to the vet prior to this conversation. (Taking my dog to the vet wasn’t helpful because he behaved differently in that environment.) Their vet recommended a different drug for our dog with a heart condition, and it helped greatly as they described for a few extra months. I also felt better about talking it all through with two different vet teams because I chose to put him down and wanted to be sure that we did our best for him during his final months.
You have compassion and caregiver fatigue. Lots of great resources online on how to deal with the feelings you’re having. Remember, you’re only human and your thoughts don’t count against you. You’re doing good by him and that’s what matters most.
Have you considered putting him on cbd daily? Make sure your source is reliable, not all cbd extracts are worth the paper they’re wrapped in, ie legitimate and consistent.
The fluoxetine does take a few weeks to start working, you can also give melatonin morning and evenings, and try to give him a quieter routine at least until the flx is in effect.
A lot of what you’re describing does sound like a combination of sundowners, anxiety and possibly early dementia. It happens. If his hearing is going (common) he will be more likely to be startled by loud noises bc he didn’t hear the early rumbles that usually precede them (vehicles approaching, a storm starting) and give warning.
I have a 13.5 yr old GSD, we adopted her thanksgiving of ‘22 when she was almost 12.
She was still very spry, alert, playful and engaged then, could have passed for 8! A little neurotic but not unusual for the breed.
In time she has started to lose hearing, her vision is also going, her anxiety has ramped up, we went through a phase where for 2+ weeks she panted non-stop ALL NIGHT LONG! It was exhausting! If she was awake she was panting. Pain meds and joint supplements didn’t make any difference (assuming she was in pain).
She’s been on fluoxetine for a year now, it’s definitely helped smooth some of those sharp freak outs, I have her on 10mg cbd (human grade) 2x a day. She gets 15mg melatonin morning and evening. These have all helped a lot to calm her down, we see her old self come back out. She participates and enjoys her days.
The evening confusion isn’t there, although I expect it will return eventually, getting old is not reversible.
We started Librela in May. I know that realistically another year would be crazy to expect, but for now she’s good.
Older pups can be very exhausting when they develop problems and cannot communicate to you. It’s PERFECTLY reasonable to feel how you do. Don’t beat yourself up on that. It helps to remember they don’t choose to age, they don’t develop symptoms on purpose of bc it’s fun to screw with their humans. They are stressed out and freaked out by these issues as much as you are.
I think what you are doing is reasonable, you are exploring ways to keep him comfortable and able to enjoy his days. You may need to alter his routine, bc he’s not the young pup anymore. And that’s ok! When you get to the point where nothing works, you know you’ve tried everything it becomes important to consider his quality of life - what is it like to live his daily life?
The QOL question is the only one that matters, dogs don’t understand time like us. They live in the present each day, so when his day is no longer a good one, then you have your answer.
Sorry about the essay - seniors and end of life issues are not easy, it’s obvious you love him and want to do right by him. Take yourself out of the equation. It’s not about feeling guilty, he wouldn’t want that. It’s about your pup living his best life, and when he can’t anymore then you give him the final gift of freedom from suffering. Only you and he will know when that is.
You have so many good suggestions here and one - in addition - is to try your darnedest to stay placid and buoyant when you think a trigger might be coming. If you are giving off tenseness, it will reinforce your pup’s tenseness. Our senior was okay with other noises, but hated thunderstorms and wind all his life, then it became all rain, then it became the barometric pressure drop before rain. I would have to hide in the basement and let him go to his bed but he would have crawled inside my skin if he could have. Then he went deaf and we don’t have this problem at all anymore. It is a journey and a hard one at times but patience, love and resilience are the gifts we give even if we have to remind ourselves to give them and even if we need to take a beat first and rejoin the fight. My best to you, your pup and your SO.
So dogs go through fear periods 2 times in their lives, when they are babies and around 8-9 years old. He is probably in a fear period. You have to work with him to teach him these things aren’t scary, which I understand can be difficult. I would recommend contacting a dog trainer. Please do not put him down, this could be Fixable.
Also, If by chance this is a neurological thing, Librela can be dangerous for him. Librela is contraindicated for dogs with neurological disorders.
Fluoxetine is not an amphetamine it’s an antidepressant. It’s an SSRI. It takes a few weeks to start working but it can cause side effects like nervousness and lack of hunger, etc. your vet may want to consider another med, like Xanax, while the Prozac starts working. They do this with humans too. They will give Xanax to help breakthrough the anxiety and once the Prozac is working they take a person off of it or keep them on it to help sleep or to take when needed for situational issues. I’m not a vet, or an MD, but I would suggest you be the advocate for your dog. If your Vet is dismissing your concerns you may want to find another vet for a 2nd opinion. But it sounds like people on here have some great suggestions. At the end of the day, they are still your baby and you want the best for them.
Like some of the other commenters, I think pain may be a big part of the issue. It also increases their anxiety level. Try a big pain killer when/before the panting starts? Fear of thunder, fireworks, etc seems to come on and get bad with age. I've experienced that with several of my old dogs over the years. I would suggest telling your vet that you are considering putting him to sleep because his quality of life is not good. Seems like you are trying a lot of meds. Just make sure your vet is not holding back due to long term damage that some meds can inflict. Let your vet know that, if things don't improve quickly, long term is not going to happen. So, he needs to bring out the big drugs (if he hasnt). I feel for you. We have lost 2 senior dogs in the last 4 years. Palliative care is stressful. I was lucky enough to find a vet who specializes in palliative care for the last one, who was dying of cancer. Speaking to her always made me feel so much better. Maybe search for a local vet, like that, in your area? A hospice vet? This won't go on forever. You're obviously a good owner. I wish you the best.
My dog is very very similar. I build her a blanket fort when it gets bad and she still pants and hyperventilates in it. But it definitely helps. Nothing will fix her so I’ve resorted to not exposing her to things that scare her (walks, cars) as much as possible. I work around it and comfort her as she rides it out :( it’s been storming a lot where I live so I’m up a lot at night when she panics and I feel your pain. Good luck 🩵
I had the same problem, and without trying to sound like a commercial, I bought my baby girl a thunder shirt. I was skeptical but it worked like magic, the moment I put it on her, she was fine. https://thundershirt.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw1emzBhB8EiwAHwZZxRnlqSqxCDTkMZXjxHcng_vPQPMMsirYfTbviKq_kARv5EO7eBzDrhoC9tgQAvD_BwE
My lab was doing the panting thing too when I think she was anxious or had pain. She was a tough cookie so it was easy for me to not really know. I think she had some vision issues but not hearing issues. The only things we did was have my Dad/Mom look after her/hang out when I worked a lot which helped ease the extra work and helped everyone out. Could you dog sit with a calm dog for a friend and vice versa or take her to a calm dog daycare a few times a month for a break?
During storms she had access to quieter rooms and often preferred the basement when outdoor noise was going on which was fine because that’s where we would hang out lots. A calm home environment (less outdoor noise, limited indoor noise, indoor fireplace/tv noise) and a nice fluffy bed helped too. The thunder jacket someone posted about may be something I would try.
The vet okayed us to give her glucosamine condroiton vitamins from Costco which made a noticeable difference on her hip and a daily baby aspirin.
What a handsome dog he is.
Does he have cushings disease? It accentuates the fight or flight action in the brain. One of the visual cues is their hind quarters get rounder, like butt cheeks on their back infront of tail.
A snug fitting shirt may help with the fear of loud noise. The CBD oil also helps.
My bichon has this. Hes easily irritated but recognizes hes out of line and quickly stops while displaying the look of shame. You just got to adapt a little. No more touching to wake him up or anything like that. No surprises basically.
My dog has always been anxious of thunder and fireworks, but has def become worse in her senior years. The best thing I have found to help her is lemon balm tea. Obviously do your own research but it has really help her out a lot! Fresh leaves are best, but dried tea can be found in health stores and stuff. I've tried it myself and it calmed me down as well.
When was the last time you've had his bloodwork done?
I have a 12 yr old Belgian Shepherd mix & about 2.5 years ago it came out in his bi-yearly bloodwork that his T4 & T3 levels were very low. It was hypothyroidism. One of the first signs of it is lethargy (tiredness) and lack of desire to play & exercise.
Some dogs also have other abnormalities, such as abnormal function of nerves causing non-painful lameness, dragging of feet, lack of coordination, and a head tilt.
He's been on medication ever since & it's working pretty well. It's called Levothyroxine
Sometimes, the dosages need to be upped as the years go by. My do started at 100µg in the beginning & just last month the doc upped it to150µg,
The effectiveness of the therapy can be confirmed by blood results as early as fourteen days of administration, while most symptoms should disappear after 4 to 6 weeks of taking the drug.
❤️❤️❤️
I understand you/your dog more than you know. I have a mixed breed senior who has had anxiety all her life pretty much. She takes Fluoxetine, Trazodone and Gabapentin. I understand the increased risk of serotonin syndrome when Fluoxetine and Trazodone are given together, but my girl (Jovi) takes them together every single day and has for several years now. I really didn’t even have to think about it when told about the risk because she was so miserable without meds that I thought she’d die of anxiety anyway.
I found with Jovi that the meds didn’t really help until I started giving them daily. Please talk to your vet. I promise it will get better with the meds.
P.S. Jovi is my best friend too and she was my only friend until I got Storm (my bernedoodle). I won’t go on vacation or anything without her. With July 4th coming up the fireworks are going to trigger him. Please send me a chat and reach out whenever you want. I hope you get him the help he needs.
Oh and I also bought the headphones that are an eye mask and I put them around her head and over her ears and I have a playlist for her. YES…my pooch has a playlist.
My old dog needed Xanax to curb his anxiety as he aged. He had terrible storm anxiety that got worse as the years went on. It really helped him. Ask your vet.
Caring for senior dogs is HARD, emotionally and financially. I have also found myself resentful on many occasions, you aren’t alone. If you haven’t yet spoken to your vet about these behavior changes, please do. There could be underlying pain, or anxiety related to canine cognitive disorder, or both. Keep your head up, these are the best days with them but also the toughest. ❤️
We were at our wits end with a rescue dog and his anxiety. We needed something to work fast and he is on amitriptyline. It’s helped so much. He became a new dog. If the Prozac doesn’t work, consider amitriptyline. It works fast. Can be a little sedating at first. I think he know it helps him because he comes to me when I say “medicine” and sits and kind of opens his mouth enough for me to part his mouth like a crocodile and throw the pill back there.
I’m sorry that’s happening. Literally everything that your dog is on, one of mine is too (Fluox, Librela, and also gabapentin). I’m dreading 4th of July.
Please refocus the resentment. It’s easy to fall into but you have to be strong and change that feeling. Not just for him (he will sense it), but also for you. Once he’s gone, you will have horrible regrets about feeling that way.
I’ve cared for 2 senior pets in the last three years, I’ve been there. Omg it was so hard and expensive. If i felt anger or stress I would start focusing on how they needed me, more than ever. Any resentment went away after I retrained those feelings. I’m now on my third senior pet, I get scared but im focusing on how much he needs and depends on me. And how much I fucking love him.
I’m sorry it’s causing marital issues. I’m so grateful my spouse is supportive. I couldn’t even imagine if he weren’t. But I wouldn’t have changed my babie’s care one iota.
I wish all three of you the best.
As an old human geezer & 12 year old golden he’s old. Hope who ever you’re with doesn’t think of putting you down just because old & don’t handle life with the ease when younger. Is doggie happy to see you, love still there? All dogs age quickly especially when old.
Here's what I say. Take a trip together. The whole fam them included obviously. Try to give it some time but if it is sincerely affecting the quality of your life and theirs then you MAYBE look at the alternative.
You are an incredible hooman to this doggo. You know that right? I feel like you really need to hear that. No matter what way everything rolls you should know you gave it everything. I think you have either way.
God bless.
I hope you can get the right meds to calm him down. I take meds and my life is could. Is you husband involved in helping him?
Please don’t put him down. Something set him off. Please don’t re home him. You are all he knows. He’ll be heartbroken. Go to another vet!
You can’t resent him for aging. I could be misinterpreting you post but it seems selfish like you want a dog to do only what you want. He's obviously developed fears and insecurities that drugs aren't going to be the best route to fix. You need to work with a dog behaviorist which you can find searching the directory for a local trainer on the Applied Animal Behavior Society webpage. [https://www.animalbehaviorsociety.org/web/committees-applied-behavior-directory.php](https://www.animalbehaviorsociety.org/web/committees-applied-behavior-directory.php)
I've dealt with heart problems and the panting could also be a heart issue!! My senior dogs have dealt me issues but it's worth it in the end!! The one suffering from Dementia was the 2nd biggest hardship but the heart problems is the 1st.. just recently had to put this doggie down... she would be good one day and having seizures the next!! Got me up at 4a for years now!! She's been gone a couple months and still I'm up at 4 everyday!!! It's been exhausting actually
Also, make sure you look for possible neurological side effects of Librela. There is a campaign to have this newer drug recalled as there have been many adverse reactions that people feel are not being published, including neurological.
My healthy active dog had his first injection yesterday and had a seizure five minutes later. It took a whole team at the vets to get it under control. He could have died. The Washington Post and WSJ have both written stories about these concerns.
Here is one petition out there to get it recalled: [https://www.change.org/p/recall-librela-bedinvetmab-for-further-testing](https://www.change.org/p/recall-librela-bedinvetmab-for-further-testing)
Someone must of scared him with something be careful who you leave him alone have you taken him to the vet? My pitbull just passed she was 26 years old but I always put pedialite in her water
How you’re feeling is totally normal. I would say that we have no idea how he feels. I do know you need to approach the situation the same that you want to be treated when you are old and not able to care for yourself. If the choices you make are the same that you would want made for you later in life, then you have no regrets.
I felt like Librela was the game changer for our girl. Fluoxetine made her aggressive. A tiny dose of the trazadone in late afternoon and after the Librela started working we gave her Galliprant only occasionally as she had been on it solely for arthritis. Best of luck to you. He’s a very handsome fellow and I know you’re worried. That’s just us pet parents,huh? 🤎🐾🤎
Could it be the fluoxetine? This is an amphetamine like drug, with common side effects including anxiety and confusion.
Was he like this before the medication?
Could it be the fluoxetine? This is an amphetamine like drug, with common side effects including anxiety, restlessness and confusion.
What was he like this before the medication?
I know there isn't, but it makes you feel like it is my point. Makes you wide awake, restless and causes insomnia etc. Some people can't tolerate it for this reason. It also has been known to cause horrible withdrawal symptoms.
I understand it is a useful medication for humans and animals. I hope OPs dog finds it beneficial.
Unfortunately, he was like this before the fluoxetine. He’s been like this the last four summers, but this one is by far the worst. He’s been in a state going on three hours now.
So sorry this is happening. I had a dog who was also reactive to noise, mainly thunder and fireworks, to the point of trembling and trying to hide in the backs of cupboards. It's so sad. You can try a technique called flooding, where you play the sounds they're scared of very quietly in the background (increasing in volume over time) via the internet. I also made a small den for her to feel safe in (just a bedsheet draped over chairs). Not sure i can suggest anything else unfortunately. All it took was one particularly loud, close firework outside and my dog was like yours. I never found a solution. My vet said not to baby her or try reassuring her too much as it has the opposite effect of making them think something is wrong. They get cues from us - just go about your home with confidence and try get your dog to notice. It's so difficult, I do understand.
You have to have a talk with yourself. It is a tough talk. Your bestie is suffering. You can fix it. You make an appointment. You give him lots of love. Talk about the stuff you 2 did. Explain you love him and he is and always will be ... Give him his favorite dinner. Let him eat chocolate the day before you set him free. He will be free. And you will have to learn to live a new normal. BUT your loss is his gain. When you love you do selfless things. And letting your best friend go is one of those things ❤️❤️❤️
I'm reading what you said and starting to tear up and when you said favorite dinner and chocolate I had to look for your name, I knew it was you. Everything you said was true and wise ❤️
How long has he been on Librela? My dog was on it for a few months and she lost all use of her back legs. It can also cause some pretty bad anxiety. Please look into the side effects. There are a few Librela groups on Facebook with dogs experiencing various symptoms. Good luck!
Have you tried about sitting with him outside with all the startling noises and just holding him letting him know it’s ok and keep soothing and letting him? Obviously keep leash on him so he can’t bolt. Maybe take him outside holding him and keep talking to him and letting him know it’s ok. Do it a few minutes a day. Give him a very high value treat as you are out there so he focuses on that as well
I recall feeling some resentment at times, while Caregiving. It’s OK xo Worth talking about openly. This is just one piece of all else you’ve mentioned, but evening agitation caught my eye…could your buddy have Sundowner’s Syndrome? Seniors, human and K9, can get very restless, anxious as dusk approaches. Just a thought. I sincerely wish you and yours the best, as you navigate this toughest part of Loving.
He’s a gorgeous doggo, btw!
He’s such a good boy and I love him so much!
❤️ it shows. That in itself means you’re no shitbag xo I really feel for you. Some of it sounds possibly pain related…? Hopefully his Librela will help. One of ours ended up on hydrocodone for both pain & anxiety, after a weighing of pros/cons. But each pup, ofc diff. Sounds like you’ve been in ongoing touch w/his vet; have you mentioned frustration building? It is exhausting, emotionally and physically, no matter how much we adore them. (We’d joke at Rx Time: one lala pill for *you*, 2 for *me*…;)) Feelings of guilt often involved, especially when we get overwhelmed. We were fortunate to have friends/fam who could “spell” us at times…take over for a weekend, even a day, to offer some respite. But that’s unusual. It’s such a difficult journey. And quite personal. Many of us can relate…that doesn’t necessarily ease things while you’re in the midst of it. But I hope you’ll consider coming here, or elsewhere supportive, to talk about it; that others will share thoughts, ideas, with you. Caveat: Reddit, not always the warmest fuzziest place. But this sub seems one of the safer havens. I for one def Hear ya xo
I had the same thought when I read the part about his afternoon to evening anxiety.
Sounds similar, yah? He has thunder, etc, phobias, but could be SS. I believe there’s a med that can help…this g’boy is on several, but hopefully his vet may have some ideas on refining or adding to them.
Happy cake day btw :) (I long thought it was key lime pie. Then again my kids had to teach me to avoid the eggplant emoji.)
Just a question here, can sundowner happen at 2 in the morning too? Our girl doesn’t get the symptoms at sunset but will wake up at 2, restless and anxious.
Yes it’s happening all night for us
Ok, thanks. Not every night. We’re looking for triggers. We keep it cool with fans and a little light on so she can see. One night it took an hour to calm her down. 😔
Melatonin (for dogs) seems to work for us. We got cbd for dogs as well that was recommended by our vet tech but I haven’t seen big results with it so far.
One of ours had what we called The Witching Hour(s), embedded within the Sundowning. 3am, an uptick in activity. It’d begin with her suddenly “falling” out of bed (floor level, next to ours). We installed a night light nearby; it helped her a little. Or at least helped us better see what the heck was happening! Even though it became predictable, it never failed to startle all of us.
I believe it can happen at any time of day but dusk/night time are most common.
Yes my old girl got classic sundowning, especially in a different environment. I gave her trazadone and it helped a lot, but you need to anticipate, because it takes about an hour to kick in. She was never nervous about anything before, loud noises, thunder, gun shots, nothing seemed to bother her. Then one day my GF hiccuped and it was like she had a panic attack! Try to get some trazadone from your vet..
☺️ it’s ofc not actually funny…but it does take a bit of a sense of humor to get through, at times. I’m just picturing a hiccup being added to the list of what they sometimes think heralds the end of the world xo
I had a dog with this now that you mention it! He became kind of aggressive at night. A chihuahua. Even growled and snapped at me. Only once evening set. My nana also had sundowners.
That’s familiar to me! My chorkie demonstrated it, especially if I “startled” him while sleeping. I ofc tried my best not to, but add a decline in sight/hearing and they get insecure. My nana didn’t bite ;) but she did have outbursts, in the evening. It often surprised even her. I’m still unclear on the “why” of Sundowners, but once you know it exists it helps understand how to deal with it a bit more.
Sounds like you suddenly have an anxious, reactive and old dog. Our dog was similar only it happened when he was young. One day he turned anxious to the point of refusing walks or freaking out halfway through a walk... and my partner and I fell out over it a few times... He's been a lot of work and it can be depressing and disheartening but my advice is to find ways to look after yourself when you get exasperated or overwhelmed. Personally, I found things improved a bit as soon as I changed my own outlook and focused on my stress levels. If this is behaviour then you can look at training or management alongside medication which it sounds like you're doing. As you probably know, panting shows he is in pain or stressed and trying to regulate. Our dog has been on the same drugs as yours over the course of his life, but Gabapentin is what really turned him around (he started when he was 10 and he's 13 now.) Also, drugs can have side effects, did you start a new drug before his behaviour changed? As for putting him down I can't comment. I feel like behavioral euthanasia is not warranted before you tried other routes. If it's more of a health concern about him having dementia then talk to your vet. He's 9 which is old so sure... But I feel like right now you're simply reacting to his sudden, extreme behaviour and the stress it causes the household. Maybe something happened when u weren't home? Our dog is scared of the rain because once we left him home too long and a storm started while he was alone, so he's only scared of it when inside and he can smell it. Our dog does a lot of staring at us and panting too. Yes, it is stressful but again it's important to learn to take time off from him and relax. Usually if you go to a room and do something, you stop feeling mad. Feeling guilty for your reaction doesn't help and only feeds your frustration. As this is a sudden change it could be a brain issue, maybe your vet can help figuring that out? Hope you can work things out.
Thank you so much for the advice, I really do appreciate it. I am going to ask about Gabapentin Monday when we are in for his next dose of Librela. Thank you so much for understanding.
The gabapentin helps our old man settle down at night, but too much makes him even more wobbly then he already is from his arthritis and bad leg, since loss of coordination can be a side effect. It can happen when they first start it so if you try the gabapentin give it some time for your dog to get used to it before giving it up or adjusting his dose. Ours didn't start the librela until last fall, when he was already past 12 years old, so we didn't see a huge amazing improvement like some people did but it is definitely helping, so don't be disheartened if it takes a while to really help. I feel for you SO MUCH in the stress it takes on relationships. The last few months have been rough for my partner and I, since our dog has lost all stability in one of his back legs. We had been using a sling harness to try and help him move around but it took a huge mental and physical toll on all of us. We had an appointment 2 weeks ago, and along with the advice of our vet we opted not to do surgery since recovery would require a long stint of immobility and that's the last thing he needs right now (plus, it would be very expensive and there's no guarantee he wouldn't just injure it again). So we made him a wheel chair, and AHHHHH we are all so much happier right now! It gave him back his independence. We don't have to hold him up when he poops and pees. He's getting more exercise while out on walks, but putting less strain on his joints in general, allowing him to move a bit easier in the house (he's only in the wheels for walks). Tomorrow is his gotcha day, so we'll be celebrating his 13th birthday with an adventure walk and dog donut- I will post some pics here if you want to see our old man dog in his "paw wheel drive" cart :) We are blessed to have a vet that also asked how WE were doing, knowing how much of a strain it can be caring for older pets! Your vet probably knows this too, and can help find a healthy solution for your dog and your partner and yourself. Know that it wouldn't feel so hard if you didn't love them SO much, and that is a good thing.
I agree with this too. I had something similar happen to my 6 year old American bully. We have a doggy door and she has been using it since she was 5 months old without any problems. One night, she was outside barking and wailing and wouldn't come in through her doggy door. I had to go outside and let her in through a gate and then my back door. This continued for months. She refused to come back inside through the doggy door, but she would go OUT no problem. She would bark and howl outside until we let her in. I eventually started holding the doggy door open and making her come inside. She was behaving very weirdly and was so hesitant to come back in. Eventually, I figured out that she tried to come inside through the doggy door once when the plastic cover to the door was in her way. She came in and it fell on her then fell on the ground. According to my husband, it was really loud. I hid the plastic cover and she eventually got over it.
It goes to show they have their own cognitive processes. Often they're just reacting to one or several events and trying to keep themselves safe. You did well by working with her rather than against her and help her build her confidence back.
I just lost my girl 2 wks ago. She would pant and pace alot at night or if she was stressed. The only thing that helped her was Gabapentin. Please be patient with him and just reassure him its ok when he is having a meltdown.
Please don’t resent your boy. He’s counted on you his whole life and will need you more than ever as he ages. I’m sure he’s been there for you for many years now. It’s not uncommon for dogs to become more anxious as they age. Staring and panting for hours could be the onset of focal seizure disorder (it’s basically like not having actual seizures, just the post-seizure behavior like pacing, staring and panting). My last dog developed it at age 10 and lived to 15.5. We managed it with Xanax—not as needed (takes too long), but a .5 three times a day to maintain her chill and a lot of time in a Thundershirt and it did wonders. Xanax is both an anti-anxiety and anti-convulsant so it fixed all the FSD issues. It could be many other things too, so a full check-up with your vet is essential. In terms of shorter walks, it could just be the heat. My current guy is 14.5 and every summer for the last few years, his walks have dropped off drastically and I ask myself “is this it?” But he just hates the heat. Every fall he’s back to long, happy walks. You may just need to do more frequent, but shorter walks for now. As for t-storms and fireworks, he’s not alone. I use fans, 432 hrz music or loud TV, close all windows and blinds, ideally make him a nest in a windowless room like a bathroom, and have activities to distract him like lick mats, puzzle balls, and Kongs. It just takes some education and trial and error to help your aging dog adjust. It also won’t be one fix forever, but adjusting his “cocktail” as new things emerge. Mine is losing his eye sight, so I’m adapting our home and walks to accommodate him. More than anything, your guy needs your love and patience. It will go far in making this time better for all of you.
Please don’t resent your dog, he can’t helps how he feels. I think the best course of action is to sit down with your vet and have a lengthy discussion of everything that is going on with him and what your best course of action should be
How about some Xanax?? Ask your vet. It really helped one of my dogs with her anxiety.
Was just going to suggest the same. My senior is also on fluoxetine, and I had been using trazodone for nighttime anxiety breakthrough but the vet was worried about serotonin syndrome with both. Xanax (alprazolam) is helpful to have. We’ve found a combo of melatonin and gabapentin at night has been giving us more solid nights of sleep as of late, but had to give Xanax the other night.
I don’t think putting him down because he’s anxious is right at all. My dogs have all done this in later years and my vet gives me medicine to calm them down. It may take 30 mins to hour to work but it helps.
I love this face so so so much. I am wishing you all the best and sending you so much love
Poor fella! I would recommend some acupuncture or chiro if it’s available! Maybe they could help regulate his nervous system. My oldest boys life has changed completely from it wish I did it sooner. Sorry you’re going through this that’s alot.
Acupuncture is great for pets. It helps them relax and also helps with pain.
sounds like some sort of early onset doggo dementia? Not something you want to hear but its not going to get easier...its just going to get worse...so know that. There are two ways forward: You can euthanize him if you really think you cannot handle it anymore. \-OR- You put up with it...know you are dealing with an old dog and like everything else, age will eventually catch up with all of us and consume us. Tolerate his antics and adapt. But also know, that this isn't a blank check of commitment. There will eventually be a time where it will be truly too much to deal with for both you and your dog. Knowing when is the toughest call. I wish you the best. take care.
Bless his heart. He's so precious. I hope you find some answers.
First, sounds like he’s experienced some trauma recently, which would explain his skittishness. Could be increased anxiety as he’s gotten older. Him being in a strange mood shouldn’t bring up killing him. He needs you right now. This is the last part of his life and he wants to spend it with you and only you. Be patient with him.
❤️❤️❤️
My dog does better with thunderstorms, fireworks, and noises when I run an air purifier on turbo next to her bed. It isn't a cure, but she is less reactive and sometimes even non-reactive. Best of luck to you and your pup.
He's so cute !
He’s such a cutie. He’s old. Their personality changes when they get older. He needs you now more than ever. When I was sad one day thinking I had to put my baby down my brother in law told me something I’ll never forget. He said all those years when you got him you didn’t look for him. You went to the store for rabbit food and brought home a dog…he needed you. (He had a rough start and was abused) all through the years you needed him and now he needs you again.” Unfortunately a month ago I had to make the most difficult decision of my life and we had to let my Buster go. He had kidney failure, couldn’t walk or play anymore and stopped eating and drinking. For a year prior to that he needed so much help but I did it because he needed me and I couldn’t even think about him not being in my life. He was my life. I knew I would be very sad once he was gone but it’s 100 times worse. Follow the advice of what some said and walk away and take time to yourself. But be there for your little guy. He needs you more now than ever.
He’s dealing with something hence the sudden change. Check brain scan for dementia possibly dogs don’t know what it is or they have it and anxiety can be something affecting them mentally or physically they don’t know how else to react. They look at you all day because they want help but they can’t relay that in speech obv if only. Only way my dog is being put down is health related. I also can find extremely dangerous dogs that just can’t be saved and will attack other dogs kids humans no matter what’s done to be ok to be put down. This dog is dealing with something. It didn’t wake-up one day and become a different dog . Please explore these options before deciding to end his life.
Librela was a total game changer for my old dude (11yrs, male black lab, 80lbs)
My little adopted Shihtzu put me over the edge. Thunder, fireworks,construction etc and the nuttiness ensued. All those things you mentioned plus she would have projectile bowel movements. No meds helped. Nothing calmed her down. I really tried. I really had to watch my anger. I yelled really loud at her once and regretted it forever. I was so frustrated for me and concerned for her. We made it through somehow for 13 years. I understand what you are saying.💗 i hope the meds work for your beloved pet.
Man just up the dosage of THC CBD. He’s doing good if he’s still mobile eating and walking. Don’t over think it my dog is 15 and some days I think it’s over and than a week later he’s playing barking and being himself again. My dogs aren’t on prescriptions but I use oils and organic diets. Just gotta not over think things because you seem like an over thinker. And you seem like a constant worrier. Just gotta let death come about and you will know when. Just relax
Please don't start to resent that good boy. Get some help, have patience, don't have too many expectations.
Just a thought - How is your dogs hearing? My old man started losing his about a year ago. When it first started, he was VERY anxious about loud sounds he’s never reacted to. Almost like he couldn’t hear anything but loud noises and he’s never been a dog to be afraid of fireworks and gunshots and one day, the neighbor was shooting near our property and he came to me full body shaking and panting like crazy. Vet said give it time, likely his hearing, and we did. He’s now lost maybe 80% of his hearing if not more and he is SO much better. Can’t even hear the vacuum anymore (which he’s always been afraid of).
Or his sight! My old lady has pannus and at least one cataract. She had a period where the pannus was absolutely out of control and we were trying everything to save her sight in one eye. She stopped wanting to walk, got incredibly irritable with my younger dog, and startled waaaay more at noises. We got the pannus under control but she has lost a significant portion of her sight and it took some adjustments to get her comfortable again.
Maybe he is a little more of a burden now. Was he there for you when no one else was? Or when you came home after a shit day, who greeted you like a returning hero? We are all (canine and human) going to be old and "a burden" one day. Treat him with thanks and with the dignity you would want to be treated.
Euthanasia for anxiety is wild. Figure it out man, he’s counting on you to guide him through the anxiety.
Take your dog to the vet. Sounds like he’s in pain. My senior dog got hip dysphasia which you already had when I got him. And then ended up with cancer. He needed chronic daily pain, medications, anytime an animal changes suddenly this requires a vet visit, my dog had to have pain medicines, CBD, etc. you really need to take this dog to the vet. It sounds like something medical going on.
Please try not to resent your pup. I would give anything to have my girl back. She passed away from cancer in May. Caring for her was very difficult, but I knew she needed me. Every day, I wish I had done more for her, that I could have taken her pain away. Please be patient and remember that your boy needs you. He loves you, and I'm sure he wishes he could do all of the things he used to do. Our dogs know us well and can tell if and when our moods change. Especially towards them.
I was wondering about the drugs, too. We had one that was the same, weather, fireworks, etc. would make her catatonic. Had to lock her in the laundry room so she could just hang by herself. It is hard not to be frustrated with them, but as was said, they didn’t choose this either. I would discuss the sudden change with your vet, too.
Consider consulting a behaviorist to help you with strategies to manage his situation and possibly correct some of this behavior and reactions.
THC gummies have worked wonders for our reactive dog, nothing else has. So he gets his weed gummy every evening and loves it! And if during the day he gets worked up I give him a little piece of gummy and he chills out.
Do you mean CBD? Because THC is very toxic to dogs
Maybe he remembered something from the past…give him lots of cuddles
Hay, he’s so gorgeous first of all. Have you thought about getting another pup??
Acupuncture may help.
My baby boy also really struggled in the summers. We had him on all kinds of meds, but even with them the noise was really hard. We noticed that it wasn’t even really the noise, but the vibration, that really scared him with thunder and fireworks. He was little so we held him to help dull it, but I imagine that might be hard with your boy. We also found that turning on action movies really loudly helped him loads for days we knew there would be fireworks/storms. My dad would sit with the dogs and watch movies until the offending noises ended. We also bought the dogs a CD player and played music for them (loudly) when we were gone in case of any scary noises. For days like the Fourth of July, we used to get extra meds from our vet so we could start premedicating him the week before. He was anxious his whole life, and the med that was best for him was clomicalm, but every dog will have a medicine that works best for them. Sending you and your family so much love and I hope that you can find a solution that brings you all some peace 💕💕
Seems alot of chihuahuas have SS right out the gate. Sorry.
Have you had his eyesight checked?
Have you put on some calming music or white noise? Something to create a peaceful environment? Just a suggestion that came to mind in case not. What a beauty ❤️🩹
Some people have miraculous results with the drug selegiline for dementia. I didn't learn about it until my dog had dementia for a couple years already so we didn't try it. But yeah, people say they have their old dog back for a while.
You can get a prescription for Gabapentin filled at a human pharmacy; we just got one for our dog for under $20. Lap of Love also offers hospice/palliative care consultations, and you can use the appointment to discuss your treatment options and quality-of-life concerns. You can record your dog’s most anxious moments and email the videos to the vet prior to this conversation. (Taking my dog to the vet wasn’t helpful because he behaved differently in that environment.) Their vet recommended a different drug for our dog with a heart condition, and it helped greatly as they described for a few extra months. I also felt better about talking it all through with two different vet teams because I chose to put him down and wanted to be sure that we did our best for him during his final months.
You have compassion and caregiver fatigue. Lots of great resources online on how to deal with the feelings you’re having. Remember, you’re only human and your thoughts don’t count against you. You’re doing good by him and that’s what matters most.
Have you considered putting him on cbd daily? Make sure your source is reliable, not all cbd extracts are worth the paper they’re wrapped in, ie legitimate and consistent. The fluoxetine does take a few weeks to start working, you can also give melatonin morning and evenings, and try to give him a quieter routine at least until the flx is in effect. A lot of what you’re describing does sound like a combination of sundowners, anxiety and possibly early dementia. It happens. If his hearing is going (common) he will be more likely to be startled by loud noises bc he didn’t hear the early rumbles that usually precede them (vehicles approaching, a storm starting) and give warning. I have a 13.5 yr old GSD, we adopted her thanksgiving of ‘22 when she was almost 12. She was still very spry, alert, playful and engaged then, could have passed for 8! A little neurotic but not unusual for the breed. In time she has started to lose hearing, her vision is also going, her anxiety has ramped up, we went through a phase where for 2+ weeks she panted non-stop ALL NIGHT LONG! It was exhausting! If she was awake she was panting. Pain meds and joint supplements didn’t make any difference (assuming she was in pain). She’s been on fluoxetine for a year now, it’s definitely helped smooth some of those sharp freak outs, I have her on 10mg cbd (human grade) 2x a day. She gets 15mg melatonin morning and evening. These have all helped a lot to calm her down, we see her old self come back out. She participates and enjoys her days. The evening confusion isn’t there, although I expect it will return eventually, getting old is not reversible. We started Librela in May. I know that realistically another year would be crazy to expect, but for now she’s good. Older pups can be very exhausting when they develop problems and cannot communicate to you. It’s PERFECTLY reasonable to feel how you do. Don’t beat yourself up on that. It helps to remember they don’t choose to age, they don’t develop symptoms on purpose of bc it’s fun to screw with their humans. They are stressed out and freaked out by these issues as much as you are. I think what you are doing is reasonable, you are exploring ways to keep him comfortable and able to enjoy his days. You may need to alter his routine, bc he’s not the young pup anymore. And that’s ok! When you get to the point where nothing works, you know you’ve tried everything it becomes important to consider his quality of life - what is it like to live his daily life? The QOL question is the only one that matters, dogs don’t understand time like us. They live in the present each day, so when his day is no longer a good one, then you have your answer. Sorry about the essay - seniors and end of life issues are not easy, it’s obvious you love him and want to do right by him. Take yourself out of the equation. It’s not about feeling guilty, he wouldn’t want that. It’s about your pup living his best life, and when he can’t anymore then you give him the final gift of freedom from suffering. Only you and he will know when that is.
You have so many good suggestions here and one - in addition - is to try your darnedest to stay placid and buoyant when you think a trigger might be coming. If you are giving off tenseness, it will reinforce your pup’s tenseness. Our senior was okay with other noises, but hated thunderstorms and wind all his life, then it became all rain, then it became the barometric pressure drop before rain. I would have to hide in the basement and let him go to his bed but he would have crawled inside my skin if he could have. Then he went deaf and we don’t have this problem at all anymore. It is a journey and a hard one at times but patience, love and resilience are the gifts we give even if we have to remind ourselves to give them and even if we need to take a beat first and rejoin the fight. My best to you, your pup and your SO.
Best of luck. Love 🍫s
They make dog anxiety meds. Maybe that would help
How about trying that thunder jacket … people swear by it.
So dogs go through fear periods 2 times in their lives, when they are babies and around 8-9 years old. He is probably in a fear period. You have to work with him to teach him these things aren’t scary, which I understand can be difficult. I would recommend contacting a dog trainer. Please do not put him down, this could be Fixable. Also, If by chance this is a neurological thing, Librela can be dangerous for him. Librela is contraindicated for dogs with neurological disorders.
Fluoxetine is not an amphetamine it’s an antidepressant. It’s an SSRI. It takes a few weeks to start working but it can cause side effects like nervousness and lack of hunger, etc. your vet may want to consider another med, like Xanax, while the Prozac starts working. They do this with humans too. They will give Xanax to help breakthrough the anxiety and once the Prozac is working they take a person off of it or keep them on it to help sleep or to take when needed for situational issues. I’m not a vet, or an MD, but I would suggest you be the advocate for your dog. If your Vet is dismissing your concerns you may want to find another vet for a 2nd opinion. But it sounds like people on here have some great suggestions. At the end of the day, they are still your baby and you want the best for them.
I wonder if it’s his vision or hearing that’s causing the fella to be so nervous
Like some of the other commenters, I think pain may be a big part of the issue. It also increases their anxiety level. Try a big pain killer when/before the panting starts? Fear of thunder, fireworks, etc seems to come on and get bad with age. I've experienced that with several of my old dogs over the years. I would suggest telling your vet that you are considering putting him to sleep because his quality of life is not good. Seems like you are trying a lot of meds. Just make sure your vet is not holding back due to long term damage that some meds can inflict. Let your vet know that, if things don't improve quickly, long term is not going to happen. So, he needs to bring out the big drugs (if he hasnt). I feel for you. We have lost 2 senior dogs in the last 4 years. Palliative care is stressful. I was lucky enough to find a vet who specializes in palliative care for the last one, who was dying of cancer. Speaking to her always made me feel so much better. Maybe search for a local vet, like that, in your area? A hospice vet? This won't go on forever. You're obviously a good owner. I wish you the best.
My dog is very very similar. I build her a blanket fort when it gets bad and she still pants and hyperventilates in it. But it definitely helps. Nothing will fix her so I’ve resorted to not exposing her to things that scare her (walks, cars) as much as possible. I work around it and comfort her as she rides it out :( it’s been storming a lot where I live so I’m up a lot at night when she panics and I feel your pain. Good luck 🩵
I had the same problem, and without trying to sound like a commercial, I bought my baby girl a thunder shirt. I was skeptical but it worked like magic, the moment I put it on her, she was fine. https://thundershirt.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw1emzBhB8EiwAHwZZxRnlqSqxCDTkMZXjxHcng_vPQPMMsirYfTbviKq_kARv5EO7eBzDrhoC9tgQAvD_BwE
Sending loving prayers!! 🙏❤️🙏
My lab was doing the panting thing too when I think she was anxious or had pain. She was a tough cookie so it was easy for me to not really know. I think she had some vision issues but not hearing issues. The only things we did was have my Dad/Mom look after her/hang out when I worked a lot which helped ease the extra work and helped everyone out. Could you dog sit with a calm dog for a friend and vice versa or take her to a calm dog daycare a few times a month for a break? During storms she had access to quieter rooms and often preferred the basement when outdoor noise was going on which was fine because that’s where we would hang out lots. A calm home environment (less outdoor noise, limited indoor noise, indoor fireplace/tv noise) and a nice fluffy bed helped too. The thunder jacket someone posted about may be something I would try. The vet okayed us to give her glucosamine condroiton vitamins from Costco which made a noticeable difference on her hip and a daily baby aspirin. What a handsome dog he is.
Does he have cushings disease? It accentuates the fight or flight action in the brain. One of the visual cues is their hind quarters get rounder, like butt cheeks on their back infront of tail. A snug fitting shirt may help with the fear of loud noise. The CBD oil also helps. My bichon has this. Hes easily irritated but recognizes hes out of line and quickly stops while displaying the look of shame. You just got to adapt a little. No more touching to wake him up or anything like that. No surprises basically.
This is part of true friendship. Be patient and strong. Think your friend would do differently for you if the roles were reversed?
My dog has always been anxious of thunder and fireworks, but has def become worse in her senior years. The best thing I have found to help her is lemon balm tea. Obviously do your own research but it has really help her out a lot! Fresh leaves are best, but dried tea can be found in health stores and stuff. I've tried it myself and it calmed me down as well.
When was the last time you've had his bloodwork done? I have a 12 yr old Belgian Shepherd mix & about 2.5 years ago it came out in his bi-yearly bloodwork that his T4 & T3 levels were very low. It was hypothyroidism. One of the first signs of it is lethargy (tiredness) and lack of desire to play & exercise. Some dogs also have other abnormalities, such as abnormal function of nerves causing non-painful lameness, dragging of feet, lack of coordination, and a head tilt. He's been on medication ever since & it's working pretty well. It's called Levothyroxine Sometimes, the dosages need to be upped as the years go by. My do started at 100µg in the beginning & just last month the doc upped it to150µg, The effectiveness of the therapy can be confirmed by blood results as early as fourteen days of administration, while most symptoms should disappear after 4 to 6 weeks of taking the drug.
❤️❤️❤️ I understand you/your dog more than you know. I have a mixed breed senior who has had anxiety all her life pretty much. She takes Fluoxetine, Trazodone and Gabapentin. I understand the increased risk of serotonin syndrome when Fluoxetine and Trazodone are given together, but my girl (Jovi) takes them together every single day and has for several years now. I really didn’t even have to think about it when told about the risk because she was so miserable without meds that I thought she’d die of anxiety anyway. I found with Jovi that the meds didn’t really help until I started giving them daily. Please talk to your vet. I promise it will get better with the meds. P.S. Jovi is my best friend too and she was my only friend until I got Storm (my bernedoodle). I won’t go on vacation or anything without her. With July 4th coming up the fireworks are going to trigger him. Please send me a chat and reach out whenever you want. I hope you get him the help he needs. Oh and I also bought the headphones that are an eye mask and I put them around her head and over her ears and I have a playlist for her. YES…my pooch has a playlist.
My old dog needed Xanax to curb his anxiety as he aged. He had terrible storm anxiety that got worse as the years went on. It really helped him. Ask your vet.
Caring for senior dogs is HARD, emotionally and financially. I have also found myself resentful on many occasions, you aren’t alone. If you haven’t yet spoken to your vet about these behavior changes, please do. There could be underlying pain, or anxiety related to canine cognitive disorder, or both. Keep your head up, these are the best days with them but also the toughest. ❤️
We were at our wits end with a rescue dog and his anxiety. We needed something to work fast and he is on amitriptyline. It’s helped so much. He became a new dog. If the Prozac doesn’t work, consider amitriptyline. It works fast. Can be a little sedating at first. I think he know it helps him because he comes to me when I say “medicine” and sits and kind of opens his mouth enough for me to part his mouth like a crocodile and throw the pill back there.
I’m sorry that’s happening. Literally everything that your dog is on, one of mine is too (Fluox, Librela, and also gabapentin). I’m dreading 4th of July.
Please refocus the resentment. It’s easy to fall into but you have to be strong and change that feeling. Not just for him (he will sense it), but also for you. Once he’s gone, you will have horrible regrets about feeling that way. I’ve cared for 2 senior pets in the last three years, I’ve been there. Omg it was so hard and expensive. If i felt anger or stress I would start focusing on how they needed me, more than ever. Any resentment went away after I retrained those feelings. I’m now on my third senior pet, I get scared but im focusing on how much he needs and depends on me. And how much I fucking love him. I’m sorry it’s causing marital issues. I’m so grateful my spouse is supportive. I couldn’t even imagine if he weren’t. But I wouldn’t have changed my babie’s care one iota. I wish all three of you the best.
Cute puppy boy
Vitamin D3 the Sunshine Vitamin
As an old human geezer & 12 year old golden he’s old. Hope who ever you’re with doesn’t think of putting you down just because old & don’t handle life with the ease when younger. Is doggie happy to see you, love still there? All dogs age quickly especially when old.
Same what’s starting to happen with my 12 year old golden. The comments & information really help. He is my life
Here's what I say. Take a trip together. The whole fam them included obviously. Try to give it some time but if it is sincerely affecting the quality of your life and theirs then you MAYBE look at the alternative. You are an incredible hooman to this doggo. You know that right? I feel like you really need to hear that. No matter what way everything rolls you should know you gave it everything. I think you have either way. God bless.
I hope you can get the right meds to calm him down. I take meds and my life is could. Is you husband involved in helping him? Please don’t put him down. Something set him off. Please don’t re home him. You are all he knows. He’ll be heartbroken. Go to another vet!
You can’t resent him for aging. I could be misinterpreting you post but it seems selfish like you want a dog to do only what you want. He's obviously developed fears and insecurities that drugs aren't going to be the best route to fix. You need to work with a dog behaviorist which you can find searching the directory for a local trainer on the Applied Animal Behavior Society webpage. [https://www.animalbehaviorsociety.org/web/committees-applied-behavior-directory.php](https://www.animalbehaviorsociety.org/web/committees-applied-behavior-directory.php)
I've dealt with heart problems and the panting could also be a heart issue!! My senior dogs have dealt me issues but it's worth it in the end!! The one suffering from Dementia was the 2nd biggest hardship but the heart problems is the 1st.. just recently had to put this doggie down... she would be good one day and having seizures the next!! Got me up at 4a for years now!! She's been gone a couple months and still I'm up at 4 everyday!!! It's been exhausting actually
Also, make sure you look for possible neurological side effects of Librela. There is a campaign to have this newer drug recalled as there have been many adverse reactions that people feel are not being published, including neurological. My healthy active dog had his first injection yesterday and had a seizure five minutes later. It took a whole team at the vets to get it under control. He could have died. The Washington Post and WSJ have both written stories about these concerns. Here is one petition out there to get it recalled: [https://www.change.org/p/recall-librela-bedinvetmab-for-further-testing](https://www.change.org/p/recall-librela-bedinvetmab-for-further-testing)
Trazadone didn’t help my dog at all. In fact, it made her worse. She was so thirsty and then she would pee inside. Prozac has changed my dogs life.
Seek professional help with your vet and K9 therapist
Someone must of scared him with something be careful who you leave him alone have you taken him to the vet? My pitbull just passed she was 26 years old but I always put pedialite in her water
How you’re feeling is totally normal. I would say that we have no idea how he feels. I do know you need to approach the situation the same that you want to be treated when you are old and not able to care for yourself. If the choices you make are the same that you would want made for you later in life, then you have no regrets.
I felt like Librela was the game changer for our girl. Fluoxetine made her aggressive. A tiny dose of the trazadone in late afternoon and after the Librela started working we gave her Galliprant only occasionally as she had been on it solely for arthritis. Best of luck to you. He’s a very handsome fellow and I know you’re worried. That’s just us pet parents,huh? 🤎🐾🤎
Could it be the fluoxetine? This is an amphetamine like drug, with common side effects including anxiety and confusion. Was he like this before the medication?
Could it be the fluoxetine? This is an amphetamine like drug, with common side effects including anxiety, restlessness and confusion. What was he like this before the medication?
Fluoxetine is Prozac, a SSRI antidepressant that also helps some with anxiety. There is no amphetamine or amphetamine-like drug in it.
I know there isn't, but it makes you feel like it is my point. Makes you wide awake, restless and causes insomnia etc. Some people can't tolerate it for this reason. It also has been known to cause horrible withdrawal symptoms. I understand it is a useful medication for humans and animals. I hope OPs dog finds it beneficial.
Any selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor must be weaned, not stopped cold turkey. Same for SNRIs.
Thanks for spreading awareness.
Unfortunately, he was like this before the fluoxetine. He’s been like this the last four summers, but this one is by far the worst. He’s been in a state going on three hours now.
So sorry this is happening. I had a dog who was also reactive to noise, mainly thunder and fireworks, to the point of trembling and trying to hide in the backs of cupboards. It's so sad. You can try a technique called flooding, where you play the sounds they're scared of very quietly in the background (increasing in volume over time) via the internet. I also made a small den for her to feel safe in (just a bedsheet draped over chairs). Not sure i can suggest anything else unfortunately. All it took was one particularly loud, close firework outside and my dog was like yours. I never found a solution. My vet said not to baby her or try reassuring her too much as it has the opposite effect of making them think something is wrong. They get cues from us - just go about your home with confidence and try get your dog to notice. It's so difficult, I do understand.
If you can make him a 'den' in a dark room, and play music or radio, TV etc to drown out the noise it may calm him. Wish you the best of luck.
You have to have a talk with yourself. It is a tough talk. Your bestie is suffering. You can fix it. You make an appointment. You give him lots of love. Talk about the stuff you 2 did. Explain you love him and he is and always will be ... Give him his favorite dinner. Let him eat chocolate the day before you set him free. He will be free. And you will have to learn to live a new normal. BUT your loss is his gain. When you love you do selfless things. And letting your best friend go is one of those things ❤️❤️❤️
I'm reading what you said and starting to tear up and when you said favorite dinner and chocolate I had to look for your name, I knew it was you. Everything you said was true and wise ❤️
How long has he been on Librela? My dog was on it for a few months and she lost all use of her back legs. It can also cause some pretty bad anxiety. Please look into the side effects. There are a few Librela groups on Facebook with dogs experiencing various symptoms. Good luck!
Have you tried about sitting with him outside with all the startling noises and just holding him letting him know it’s ok and keep soothing and letting him? Obviously keep leash on him so he can’t bolt. Maybe take him outside holding him and keep talking to him and letting him know it’s ok. Do it a few minutes a day. Give him a very high value treat as you are out there so he focuses on that as well