Expert: English Bulldogs ( Marie ) e-mail me at mpmaltese@gmail.com - 6/26/2008

Question
I have a 10 year old bull mastiff that we rescued when she was 2.  She has kidney disease and some arthritics caused by the previous owners failure to treat her Lyme's disease  properly.  She trembles when she is subject to thunderstorms or loud noises but lately she has been doing it more frequently even when those things are not present.

Answer
Hi Bob - You can try some natural essential oils to help calm her.
On the 4th of July you can give something stronger.

Here are some suggestions and links:

Benadryl is an excellent calming solution for dogs in stressful situations.  Veterinarians will tell you to give 1mg per lb for a dog. You can double the dosage for scary events.. Give early enough to kick in prior to fireworks, or any other stressful event.

A Calming Solution for dogs...
INGREDIENTS
1/2 ounce carrier oil (the author uses hazelnut or sweet almond)
3 drops essential oil of Valerian
2 drops essential oil of Vetiver
4 drops essential oil of Petitgrain
3 drops essential oil of Sweet Marjoram
2 drops essential oil of Sweet Orange

Mix ingredients thoroughly and apply 1 to 6 drops (depending on the size of your dog) to the dog’s nasal opening.  You can place a cotton ball ( a few of them) under your dogs nose.  You can also make a sachet to keep in the room.  


There are many books on essential oils for canines.  Also, many companies make up product for you....so you don't have to do the mixing.  

NuVET Plus is also a wonderful product that will help with anxiety and arthritis...
Here is the link for NuVET - *** All Natural Product
http://www.nuvet.com/81098

Melatonin for dogs is also an option:  Here is a link-  This is safe and Natural, too
http://www.ygrr.org/doginfo/behavior-phobia.html



Thanks for your question!

Marie of The Doggie Chalet Hotel and NuVET Plus
http://www.apluspetcare.com