Acepromazine is the most commonly prescribed oral sedative for dogs. It is a member of the phenothiazine class of sedatives and works primarily by blocking dopamine receptors within the brain, thereby depressing certain brain functions.
Unfortunately, acepromazine tablets can have wildly variable effects in different individuals. Some dogs may not appear sedated at all while others are laid flat, even when given similar doses of the drug. Additionally, the onset and duration of effect can be inconsistent and hard to predict. A potentially better option is to squirt the injectable, liquid form of acepromazine between the gums and cheek of the dog. The medication is absorbed through the oral mucous membranes and provides more reliable sedation.
Regardless of how oral acepromazine is given, side effects like low blood pressure and seizures in at-risk individuals are possible. Possible oral sedative combinations include:. Most of the oral medications that are mentioned above are also available for use by injection. Popular injectable sedatives and injectable sedative combinations for dogs include:. Acepromazine is also used in horses that are prone to exertional rhabdomyolysis both as a preventive and as a part of the treatment due to its vasodilatory properties.
When acepromazine is used to treat more severe cases of exertional rhabdomyolysis, intravenous fluids may be desirable to increase hydration and to support renal function. Onset of action of acepromazine varies with route of administration; oral acepromazine may take 30 minutes to one hour.
The effects of acepromazine will last from one to four hours, but this varies significantly with dose and among individual horses. Acepromazine is a prohibited substance in most sanctioned competition. Oral administration or long-term, repeated dosing may increase detection time. Barbara Forney is a veterinary practitioner in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
She has a master's degree in animal science from the University of Delaware and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in She began to develop her interest in client education and medical writing in Some states restrict the information we may provide about controlled substances. Please select your state below. Last Updated: October 28, References. With over ten years of experience in clinical practice and industry, she specializes in veterinary medicine and surgery, animal behavior, and animal genetics.
There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 35, times. Sedating your dog at home is sometimes necessary for medical or grooming purposes. There are many prescription sedatives available that you can administer at home, or you could try an over-the-counter or natural alternative.
Warning : Over-the-counter medications are not licensed to use on dogs, so they have not been properly tested or had controlled clinical trials on canines.
Use these medications at your own risk since they are not recommended by vets. Tip : A group dog obedience class may also be helpful, and it would provide your dog with more socialization opportunities. This may be helpful if your dog gets anxious around other dogs or people. If your dog gets anxious while traveling, it may feel sick or have nausea. Try using maropitant to relieve your dog for up to 24 hours without sedating them.
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Learn why people trust wikiHow. Download Article Explore this Article methods. Tips and Warnings. Related Articles. Method 1. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Talk with your veterinarian if you notice signs of anxiety in your dog.
Cats may prefer dried chamomile flowers. Valerian, another herbal often used by humans for insomnia, is also recommended for both dogs and cats. Valerian does not affect the brain, though it does help reduce tension and anxiety. The scent of lavender oil is relaxing, too — it has actually been tested on dogs.
It's important to note that more holistic methods to calm your pet during travel are not "quick fixes. Travel-readiness is perhaps the best way you can help your pup or kitty feel less anxious on her flight. During her journey, she will experience sights, sounds, smells, and people that are new to her.
You can train your girl to be less fearful by exposing her to unfamiliar surroundings with plenty of positive reinforcement. But the single most important thing you can do is to help your cat or dog get comfortable with her travel crate. This will be her home-away-from-home on her journey.
The wackier you are, the more worried your four-legged friend will be.
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