Melatonin

[OlgaV]

Has anyone used Melatonin for separation anxiety? Has it worked? My vet put Buster on Clomicalm because he has been trashing the house when we leave for work. He has always been kinda crazy, but since our precious Xena passed away in March, it has been pretty bad and we hate to put him on meds when there is something more natural. We are almost done with getting approved by our local Boxer rescue, only home visit pending. We are hoping to give Buster a new sister soon.

Thank you everyone.

[joannaryan]

I think a similar question was posted in the health forum listed under ~Can someone please adivise~ that might answer some of your questions

[TwoDogs]

Dosage is determined by weight and is as follows, to be administered up to 3 times a day:

10 lbs or less: 0.5mg to 1mg
10-25 lbs: 1.5mg
25-100 lbs: 3mg
100+ lbs: up to 6mg


Don't use the time release form of melatonin or capsules. Just use the plain old tablet form. Tablets are typically available in the 3mg dosage and can be split for dosing purposes. Give 20-30 minutes prior to the event (thunder/noise phobia). If used to reduce separation anxiety, give 20-30 minutes prior to when your dog typically starts showing anxious behavior. So if you getting in the shower or making your coffee makes your dog start to get anxious that you will be leaving soon, administer the melatonin 20 minutes prior to that rather than just 20 minutes prior to you leaving the house.

For any calming aid, whether pharmaceutical or natural, best results are achieved when used in conjuction with a desensitization/countercondition behavior plan. Always check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication, herbal remedy, or dietary supplement.