What can I give my dog to sleep while traveling?

Medication prescribed by your veterinarian: trazodone (brand name Desyrel®), gabapentin (brand name Neurontin®), and alprazolam (brand names: Xanax® and Niravam®) are examples of medications that are sometimes used to reduce the anxiety that some dogs experience when traveling.



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Herbal remedies can provide a natural way to calm your pooch. While lavender has been widely used for its calming effects, other herbs such as valerian, passionflower, and chamomile could also help ease your dog's anxiety.

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Although rare, tranquilizers can also cause dehydration in animals. As loving pet parents, we want to ensure the best possible travel experience for our furry friends. That's why the American Veterinary Medical Association strongly advises against using tranquilizers or sedatives.

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Medication prescribed by your veterinarian: trazodone (brand name Desyrel®), gabapentin (brand name Neurontin®), and alprazolam (brand names: Xanax® and Niravam®) are examples of medications that are sometimes used to reduce the anxiety that some dogs experience when traveling.

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Sedation carries various risks and is not recommended for pets during air travel. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), sedating cats or dogs during air travel may increase the risk of heart and respiratory problems.

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Pet parents can give melatonin to dogs in a variety of situations. For anxiety, administering melatonin ahead of time can help pets feel more relaxed during stressful events, such as a trip to the vet or when traveling on an airplane.

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Benadryl® may make some dogs a little sleepy and less responsive, but it doesn't do anything for their underlying anxiety. Benadryl® does has some efficacy in the prevention of motion sickness in dogs.

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If your dog is a working dog, be aware that they will likely be sedated and lethargic during their normal routines and assignments while taking Dramamine. Also, if your dog has an antihistamine allergy, the medication could be dangerous for them, since it's an antihistamine.

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