Is Your Dog Scared of Loud Noises? This New FDA-Approved Drug Might He

As Christmas and New Year holidays get near, a lot of pet owners are dreading the inevitable noise of firecrackers and fireworks that come with them. For some pets, there’s nothing more horrifying than loud noises, and someone’s festive mood might be their greatest terror. Fortunately, just in time for the festivities, The Food and Drug Administration approved a new drug that’s meant to help dogs petrified by loud sounds.

Pexion, as the drug is called, was initially meant to be used for treating epilepsy. While this is the primary use of the medicine in other countries where it’s approved, studies have shown that this drug is quite effective at treating anxiety in canines, as well. This drug is similar to Valium and other benzodiazepines but works in a different way that turned out to be perfect for pets suffering from noise aversion.

According to the FDA, 66 percent of owners of dogs participating in the Pexion trials rated the overall treatment effect as “excellent or good, compared with 25 percent of dogs receiving the placebo.”

Pexion will be available by prescription only and the therapy should start 2 days before the noisy event in question. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you if your pooch is a good candidate for this type of medication and let you know what the proper dosage is- tablets are given out according to your pet’s weight.

Additionally, FDA warns owners who opt for Pexion to treat their pet’s noise aversion to be on the lookout for potential behavioral side effects. While it’s highly unlikely, your pet might become aggressive while on this medication. 3 out of 90 dogs in the trial were reported to exhibit aggressive behavior such as growling after taking the drug. Drugs used to treat anxiety can lead to “lack of self-control of fear-based behaviors” in general, so it’s best to keep your eye on your pooch while they’re taking it.