Is there Xanax for dogs? Like humans, Dogs also have anxiety issues. Yes, you heard it right. They are very sensitive to thunderstorms, fireworks, car rides, or separation from their owners. If your pet experiences such anxiety or fear issues, then you can give them Xanax after consulting a veterinarian. Here, a question arises: Is Xanax for humans or dogs? To learn more about this, explore this article to learn about usage, benefits, and safety concerns.
What Is Xanax for Dogs?
Xanax is an anti-anxiety medication, a popular brand name for alprazolam. It is a prescription medication that comes under the drug class Benzodiazepine. Which is a CNS depressant that works by calming neurotransmitters in the brain. Originally it was designed for human sufferers with anxiety, but veterinarian offers it sometimes to dogs. Before giving the medicine, make sure that your dog has an anxiety issue and he/she need medication. Because some symptoms are similar to anxiety or depression. So, first make sure that can you give human xanax tablets to a dog or not?
Can You Give Dogs Xanax Dose For Anxiety?
A variety of research has been done to treat dog anxiety with Xanax. It has been concluded that if your pet has Separation anxiety, Travel or car ride stress, or Social stress (new people or environments), then you can treat his/her with Xanax but under the supervision of a health guide. You can use Xanax for Dogs by following some precautions. You can give it before a situational anxiety or as a regular dose. But remember that it should be followed by the doctor’s prescription.
Is Xanax Safe For Dogs?
Xanax is safe for the dogs only when used as directed by the veterinarian. If you exceed or miss the dose, then it will show negative effects. Always consult a licensed vet; however, the treatment process should be done right. Other health issues also matter during xanax treatment. Before starting the treatment, be aware of all xanax drug interactions. For example, if xanax dosages are taken with other CNS depressants, then it will cause serious respiratory block, coma, or death. Similarly, xanax combined with antidepressants can cause drowsiness, memory loss, or low blood pressure. Other medicines like Antifungal, Macrolide Antibiotics, and HIV Protease Inhibitors should also be avoided with xanax. Therefore, tell about all medications your pet is taking to the vet for a safe recovery.
Another important thing to remember is how long it will work. Considering this, the amount of dosage should be decided. It will also have various side effects. The longer the activity, the higher the chances of side effects and vice versa. Let’s know how long does xanax last for dogs.
How Long Does Xanax Work For Dogs?
We know xanax is made for human anxiety disorders, but did you know how does xanax work for dogs? Let’s know its working mechanism. Xanax for dogs starts working after 30 to 60 minutes. After taking the pill, it mixes with the bloodstream. In the brain, it works by enhancing the effects of a natural brain chemical called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Which is also known as the brain’s calming chemical, that helps to reduce nervousness, Anxiety, or Fear. Xanax enhances the level of neurotransmitter GABA, which helps your dog to feel calmer, less reactive, and more relaxed.
Another important factor is, how long does it take for xanax to kick in for dogs? Because it will define the benefits and defects of the pill to the dog. Generic Xanax on its peak action after 1-2 hours of taking, and Xanax has a minimum half-life of about 11 hours. It means it will take 11 hours to eliminate half of the pill. Overall, it has a short duration as compared to other benzodiazepines. To completely eliminate from the body, it takes 5 times of half-life. That means it will take more than 45 hours to flush out. Some factors are there that will affect this duration, like weight, age, other health issues, and the metabolism of the dog. So always follow the veterinarian’s schedule to avoid any negative effects.
Is Xanax for Dogs The Same As Xanax For People?
Yes, Xanax dosages for dogs and humans are the same in terms of their active ingredient, alprazolam. Their working mechanism is also the same, intended to increase GABA levels in the brain. Also, it is used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and stress issues in both humans and dogs. That does not mean you will use your prescribed xanax for your dog. Because dogs need a lower dose compared to humans. Generally, veterinarians prescribe xanax to dogs according to their weight, severity of anxiety, and other health conditions. If you give the pill without considering these factors, then it will cause adverse effects on you.
Xanax For Dogs Side Effects
Xanax dosage for dogs is very effective, but sometimes it shows some side effects like Drowsiness, unsteady walking, difficulty standing, Confusion during training, more anxious, or hungrier than on a normal day. These symptoms may be caused by a lack of proper treatment or by overdose. If you give the pill carelessly, these symptoms could worsen. Vomiting, Liver issues, breathing problems, or severe anger can lead to immediate medical attention. If you notice any mild side effects, it’s better to consult an experienced veterinarian. So that you can rid your dog’s anxiety safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Dog Xanax overdose symptoms?
When your dog is suffering from an overdose of xanax, you could see unresponsiveness, stumbling, unstable walk, Limpness, or Low body temperature. In some severe cases, vomiting, slow breathing, or coma could happen. If you see any of these, immediately go to a vet before any critical condition appears.
How much Xanax for dogs can be given per day?
It should be decided by the vet. Because without examining the current health condition, giving this CNS depressant might cause harmful effects. The vet will decide the amount of the dose according to their body weight, age, and current health status, for which the pet will get a safe and appropriate treatment.
Can dogs take Xanax for storm anxiety?
In a thunderstorm, dogs get quite panicked and anxious due to the loud sound. Dogs have better hearing than us. So instantly, they get more anxiety and hyperactivity. To reduce this, xanax can be taken by the dog, but only after a veterinarian consultation.