Safe ways to calm my dog's separation anxiety while I'm at work?

Question

My shih tzu (13 pounds) has separation anxiety and I can’t send him to the sitter for two weeks. Would it be safe to give him 1/4 of a 10mg lexapro poll to help keep him calm while I’m at work. I don’t want to hurt my dog but his crying has gotten us threats . I just want him to be calm and feel safe while I’m at work. Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | unneutered | 13 lbs

Jessica Keay, DVM · Accepted Answer

I am sorry to hear about Max. Lexapro is not a drug we normally use in dogs so its safety and efficacy hasn't been evaluated and I would not recommend giving this drug. The drug also requires several weeks of use before effects are truly seen so it would not help you now. There are, however, some prescription medications your vet can recommend and prescribe to help Max to provide both short term and long term relief. You can read more about this condition and treatment options at https://www.vin.com/veterinarypartner/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952970 . You can try over the counter products like an Adaptil collar https://www.vin.com/veterinarypartner/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952970 and Zylkene calming supplement http://www.vetoquinolusa.com/content/zylkene though in severe cases of anxiety these may not be enough.

Safe ways to calm my dog's separation anxiety while I'm at work?

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