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Articles

Melatonin: Used To Treat Fear Of Thunderstorms

Monday, December 15, 2008 | Printer Friendly Printer Friendly


Dogs are often scared of loud noises, not all dogs, but many. And of those who do have a noise sensitivity,  thunderstorms and other similar, unexpected sounds, are often the culprits of their fears. Fear of thunder or other loud noises is very common. This is often true for puppies and older dogs.

Dealing with the possibility of having a panic stricken, nervous dog, many owners resort to tranquilizers whenever alerted to an impending thunderstorm. This is an extreme treatment that is often recommended, but seldom needed. I would like to now introduce you to a new alternative should you ever need it for your own scared dog the next time a storm comes through your area. It is a safe, drug-free, over-the-counter supplement that is easily available to to any dogs with these anxiety problems. It is called melatonin.

You have probably heard of melatonin before. It is a naturally occurring hormone that is secreted by a small endocrine gland called the pineal gland, located at the base of the brain. It helps to regulate and maintain the body’s circadian rhythm (the body’s internal clock that tells mammals when to fall asleep and when to wake up). Melatonin, in humans, is often used as a natural sleeping aid. For dogs, melatonin is often administered to alleviate their fear of thunder and other loud noises.

I have read studies that melatonin has a positive result with at least 75% of dogs who take the supplement. When do you administer melatonin, you may be wondering? With some dogs, melatonin is most effective when it is given just before the storm hits.  In other dogs, it is best when this supplement is given just as they are starting to show signs of stress, anxiety and fear so you may have to experiment over the course of a few storms before you find the perfect application time for your own dog.

Melatonin is said to work in the dogs body for about eight hours or so. One important note: do not use melatonin on any pregnant dogs or very young puppies. The best advice I can give you is to check with your veterinarian prior to using melatonin to make sure there will be no problems with pre-existing health problems or medications that your dog currently has (or is on) and also for the recommended dosage for your own pet.

By: Debbie Ray


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