Is it safe to give my dog Ativan or Xanax with Anipryl for anxiety?

Question

My 14 year old black lab with cognitive canine dysfunction is on Anipryl which seems to be working fairly well. Sometimes though, he has breakthrough anxiety and my vet has suggested melatonin. Would it be OK to give him a small dose of Ativan or Xanax also? Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 70 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

I agree with your vet, the melatonin would be best. Dogs, especially a large 70 pound dog, would take a very large dose of lorazepam or alprazolam. They metabolize those drugs quickly so a large dose is needed - a small dose would do nothing. While those drugs can be given to dogs, I suggest you ask your vet before giving either of those drugs since they have your dogs entire medical history. It is contraindicated to give Anipryl along with certain antidepressants, opioids and benzodiazepines.

Is it safe to give my dog Ativan or Xanax with Anipryl for anxiety?

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