Separation anxietyQ: The vet has started our 15 yr old dog on clomipramine 5 mg bid x 2 weeks then 10 mg bid for a total of 20 mg qd. the dog is 12 1/2 #. since the 5 mg capsules are so expensive, when we get to the increased dosage can he have it all at once, is it timed release or would 25 mg not work for his size. 5 mg is 3 times the amount and pet meds does not even carry 5 mg or any tablets only capsules. thanks A: There is only a small difference between the 20 mg tablet and the 25 mg capsule but the vet would have to authorize it. it is not a time release product and depending on the effect desired whether or not you can use a once a day dosing. we do have people giving 1/2 capsule dosing.
Fear bitingQ: We have a 9 year old female black lab who was a fear biter from the time we rescued her at 1 1/2 yrs old. we worked with a behaviorist, learned her triggers and the behavior was under control until recently. she's become more agressive and territorial and last nite attacked one of our other dogs who happened to be near zoe's bone. the dog had to be rushed to the vet with numerous wounds. zoe has been in a room by herself since the attack and growl and nips at me whenever i let her out and then try to put her back in. something needs to be done asap as i have children, cats and 3 other dogs. do you think medication would help? thanks. A: I would not rely on medications to treat this. i do not think you can risk having an aggressive dog in your house. she may have to be placed in a home where there are no children or other pets.
FleaQ: My cocker is allergic to almost every kind of flea medication. can you recommend anything i can use on him ? A: Try natural flea control methods such as product known as cloud 9 made by company called halo or halopets. also see book dr. pitcairns guide to naturalhealth for dogs and cats by richard pitcairn, which has detailed options in this area
Bladder stonesQ: My 3 yr old cat had a stone in his bladder. the vet hosp. had him in the hosp for 3 days giving him some medication to disolve the stone. after that he was on a type of food that continued to disolve the stone for about a month. he has to have prescription canned and dry food from now on to prevent the reocurrance of the problem. it is hill's prescription diet, feline c/d (4 lb bag - dry) and canned in a 5 1/2 oz. can. do you sell this? it seems expensive. $11 for the bag and $1/ can. A: I'm sorry about your cat's problem. unfortunately we do not carry pet foods.
Smelly dog after being outsideQ: My golden smells bad after being outside. i only let her out to relive herself. i live in florida and is is very humid and hot here so it is almost as if she is sweating this odor. i had a jack russel that died recently and he never had this problem but my friends black lab does. she dosent scratch, have sores, bad breath, or anything, just this stench after being outside. i've noticed that you suggest a diet change and was wondering why you suggest the flaxseed oil and such? could this be the problem? A: When i hear about body odor issues, etc without visually external skin lesions or ear problems, then i often suspect dietary issues or sensitivities as poor digestion, etc has been linked with all sorts of systemic problem. think of a person who is sensitive to garlic who if eats a little garlic, will exude it right through their skin. however if your dog only smells after being outside in a particular area, then perhaps she is being exposed to some sort of chemical on lawns she is allergic to or perhaps inhalent allergens which actually flax seed oil might help. but usually allergies cause some sort of itching which is why if pets not itchy, then i start with better diets, supplements, etc
AnxietyQ: My sons 8 yr old dog is constantly wining. he's other wise content, and very loveable. at home you could be sitting watching tv, and he'll lay at your feet and wine. has always been this way, but seems to be getting worse lately. vet has recommanded prozac, but because of the cost, it is out of the question. what can you suggest. thank you, A: I would try some natural flower essences from health food store such as rescue remedy which can be used safely long term with no side effects. there is also cheaper meds such as amitryptylline which your vet can prescribe if anxiety a big issue
