They are designed to help dogs cope with common anxious situations such as fireworks and thunderstorms, separation anxiety, travelling, hyperactivity and so on, but should be given daily to support pets with long-term stress. For separation anxiety, we have found it effective when used in conjunction with a Thundershirt and DAP spray. Using these three things have allowed us to leave our Whippet on his own, without our other dog, for 2-hours without any barking or whining (we record him). Valerian root for dogs can be safe and work quite well but remember, what works successfully for one dog will not necessarily work for another. If your dog is on any medication, remember to speak to your vet first and try to aim for a lower dose of valerian root to start. If your dog is good at taking pills, they are easy to find online, or your vet might recommend a specific brand you can use. Otherwise, it does come in liquid and powder form, which can be sprinkled on your dog’s food or in his water. According to Veterinary Herbal Medicine, by Susan G. Wynn, DVM, and Barbara Fougere BVSc, the recommended dose of dried valerian root for your dog is between ¼ tsp to 1½ tsp, or for a tincture between 1½ tsp to 3 tsp.

Is Valerian effective against stress in pets? - Vet Help Direct Is Valerian effective against stress in pets? - Vet Help Direct

For use on singular occasions, give 12 hours and 2 hours before event using the higher dosage rate.

Can I use the tablets and liquid together?

While valerian has very few side effects, it’s also what herbalists refer to as a ‘ hot’herb. Although it may seem odd to think of herbs as hot or cold, it’s an important consideration when using any herb to treat a dog. Thanks to the homeopathic herb’s sedative and anti-anxiety properties, it helps calm down your dog during stressful situations. Integrative veterinarian Dr. Lisa Pinn McFaddin notes that “Specific conditions in which valerian root may be recommended include noise phobias — including thunderstorms, fireworks, and gunfire, separation anxiety, visits to the veterinary office, travel, on walks with aggressive dogs, and when hosting large groups of people at home.” Valerian root benefits dogs in the following situations: Valerian is an ideal natural remedy for the treatment of anxious or nervous dogs, and particularly for those dogs who, like many humans, suffer from insomnia. It is also known to be of benefit to dogs which suffer from canine epilepsy. According to Tilford and Wulff, “it sometimes helps to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.”

Valerian for Dogs - The Canine Nutritionist

Many situations can be worrying for our pets causing fear and anxiety. Valerian Compound can be used for: The correct dosage of valerian root is dependent upon your dog’s stress level, weight, and the form of the herb given. Dr. Susan Wynn explains the difficulty of dosing in the beginning, “It’s all guesswork at this point, and only trained herbalists would be expected to start at the right dose.” Therefore if an adult dose is two supplements three times a day, the appropriate dosage for a thirty-pound dog would be twenty percent of six capsules or one point two capsules a day. As with anything new, introduce it gradually so that your dog can get used to it and minimize any possible reactions.Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) comes from the valerian plant, which is a flowering perennial plant that is native to the grasslands in Europe and Asia, later becoming common in North America. The herb blooms with small white, purple, or pink flowers during the summer months. But, what makes the plant standout are its stems and stolon, also known as its roots. Administration: Small dogs & cats 1.25ml. Medium dogs 2.5ml. Large dogs 5ml. Giant breeds 7.5ml. Given when required. It is not recommended that more than two administrations of the stated amount are given in a 24 hour period.