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Thursday 28 June 2012

Sleepless nights

I'm writing in the hope you might be able to help as to be honest, we are desperate!

When Billy came home from his eye op, he appeared very traumatised by the whole thing when he came home - wouldn't eat, hiding under things, squashing himself into dark corners etc. After six and a half weeks, he seems more like his old self apart from one major problem - he won't sleep at night any more.

He didn't sleep after his op for several nights and this seems to have become a pattern , along with the night-time barking. He now doesn't go to sleep until about 3am every night although it has been 5am on really bad nights.He now sleeps during the day instead.

We have had two complaints from our neighbours and have taken him to the vet who has said he needs a type of anti-depressant - Clopicalm? Have you heard of it? The vet has also prescribed him sedatives. We are desperate not to use any drugs as we don't want to "medicalise" a problem (  a bad habit?); we have consulted a behavourist but she hasn't come up with anything useful either. We have tried Rescue Remedy, DAP etc, all to no avail.

Beverley: we are desperate! Please can you think of anything or anyone who might be able to help?

Thanks so much.

Best wishes,
Nicola

2 comments:

  1. This seems to an issue that has arisen from a medical problem so going back to your vet is a great idea. As you are not happy about using chemical drugs on your dog have you discussed Zyklene with your vet?

    Sometimes a short term dose of medication can help with getting things back on track. I haven't heard of Clopicalm, do you mean Clomicalm? This is clomipramine hydrochloride and is often used to treat separation anxiety in dogs and depression in people.

    The help of a good behaviourist will also be beneficial. There are some really good ones out there, who may be degree qualified but have decided not to register with UKRCB or APBC. Ask what level of experience and qualifications they have.

    I would suggest trying to keep the dog awake during the day so that he is more inclined to sleep at night.

    It does sound more cognative than behavioural and I think discussing alternative medication with your vet would be the best option and any good behaviourist should suggest this too.


    Olwen Turns

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  2. Can problems in your pet's digestion affect their sleeping habits? How does dog probiotics help in this matter?

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