Dog on Valium

[penybryn]

We took our old man Bubba to the vet today, thinking it was his time. He has been extremely anxious, pacing constantly, whining, panting, etc. He has a little less appetite but not significant. He is 95 % blind and his hearing has become hypersensitive so loud noises like thunder and fireworks send him into a destructive need to escape.

He's almost 15 years old.

Most unbelievable...his lungs, heart & kidneys are strong and vibrant. He has a touch of senility and a bit of arthritis.

He has been prescribed valium to help ease his anxiety.

Anyone has experience with this?

As long as he isn't in pain, we plan to let him live out his days comfortably. He will be monitored closely by us and our vet.

http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e192/thejudges/th_sleepingbubba.jpg

[skyblu]

Aw, poor baby. :(

I don't have experience with this but wanted to send hugs Bubba's (and your) way. He looks like a sweet boy and I hope the Valium makes things easier for him.

[penybryn]

He's doing well. I've been giving him one pill in the morning and two in the evening. Helps him settle down by about 8:30-9. He's also been napping more during the day. Going back to his old basset self. Our two year old basset can just nap the day away. She has lots of energy when she's in the mood and she can go for long walks, but mostly she just lays around snoring!

I go back to work and the kids go back to school in September (off for the summer) and it just kills me to see their sad little faces when I go. We enjoyed each others company so much every day. Is it weird to leave the tv on for them?

[jesvet]

I think that is a very nice thing to do. He looks like a very sweet old man! Glad the valium is helping him relax. Quality of life is so important!

[sdianems]

Good to know that it is working; a colleague puts his Akita on Valerian Root from time to time to help her deal. He puts some drops in her water and has had great success with it.