Expert: Marie Peppers / The Boston Terrier Lady - 2/8/2009

Question
QUESTION: My Boston Terrier sometimes has spells when he shakes all over and hides from us.  He also will not eat or do anything, like playing with us. Nothing seems to help, but at times he is very sociable and seems fine.  At times he seems very nervous and unhappy no matter what we do with him. HELP!

ANSWER: Susie, do you think this is a health issue or a behavior issue????

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I wish I knew and don't expect you really know. However, I do think it is most likely a behavior issue. Like I said, sometimes he is fine but this shaking seems to be happening more frequently now.  I will be taking him to the vet and see what he thinks.  He just had his wellness exam 2 weeks ago. I just wondered if you have heard of this behavior in Boston Terriers before?

Answer
Hi Susie - I wonder if he has an anxiety issue... Very common in this breed and others....
We could try a supplement to help calm his nerves:
Valerian is a good one - just a small dosage should help:
Worth a try, right?  VERY SAFE
Valerian -  ( give 1 per day ...(in the evening)
OR, you can go 1 every other evening....REDUCES STRESS
http://www.mynsp.com/nuvetpetnurse/products/guide.aspx?stockNum=721

IF this does well you can go EVERY-OTHER-DAY - try the daily dosage and if it works,,,,, then after 30 days go with every other day.
 
VALERIAN ROOT EXTRACT TIME RELEASE (60 TABLETS)

Valerian, Time-Release [Nervous]. This herb has been used as a sleep aid for over 1,000 years. Its ability to help relax the central nervous system, promote feelings of calm, decrease levels of anxiety and stress, and enhance restful sleep are known to millions the world over. Valerian is not known to cause morning grogginess ..


Also, we can try some other supplements - check out the NuVET here:
Great all around vitamin/ thousands of Bostons are on this...
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html


Let me know if you try the Valerian.  Again, it is very safe...
Let you vet know if it works.. Educate your vet on herbs and supplements..( they don't get any training in vet school on supplements... - not much )


Marie Peppers LPN MA
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