My dog is pacing and restless. Trazodone isn't helping. What's next?

It seems like something neurologic is going on with Luna based on the description of pacing and panting. I'm assuming this was the original problem with her when you took her to the other vets. It's encouraging that those tests were normal and helps to rule-out many life threatening problems, but it looks like more tests would need to be done to find the cause. I'm not sure what the stomach coating pills, antibiotics and pain are all attempting to correct, but I would need to know all of her previous information in order to comment on that. You may consider requesting a consult with one of our experts, so that you can send all the information, pictures and have the ability to chat back and forth for as long as necessary. It appears that an accurate diagnosis is lacking with Luna. I recommend scheduling a recheck appointment with one of the vets that has seen Luna and ask them what it will take to get a definitive diagnosis. Sometimes we attempt to treat for the common causes of a problem prior to suggesting costly diagnostics. If the treatment doesn't appear effective, then a new strategy is in order. I hope that helps and Luna gets better soon.

While it's possible that this was related to the trazodone causing sedation, this is a relatively low dose for a dog her size and I would think you would have seen signs sooner. It is possible that she had some hip pain. Other causes of uncoordinated movement would include a neurologic problem like a seizure, or certain toxins. If she seems to be her normal self again I think it would be safe to try another dose of trazodone during the day when you can monitor closely (check with your vet first). If she is still not walking normally or seems painful I'd recommend having her examined by your vet.

Hi there. I would be concerned with Hershey developing serotonin syndrome with concurrent use of trazadone and fluoxetine especially if you are giving them together often. It has to do with how the drugs are metabolized in the body and what receptors they work on. Side effects can be as you have listed, as with diarrhea, labored fast breathing, etc. I would try calling your doctor to discuss changing the dosages or weaning off the trazadone altogether. Hope this helps!

This could be canine cognitive dysfunction, which is like Alzheimer's in humans. I would have Mitch seen by a vet for this to see if he does have this. If he does, therapeutic foods, exercise during the day, and potentially a drug called Anipryl.

Many medications work great in the beginning and then after some time they start to stop working to the same extent, in some cases the dosage can be upped to achieve the desirable effect, you need to contact your vet regarding this issue.

Poor Lucy! You could start with some calming chews like composure or the prescription form (stronger) composure pro to see if this helps. You can also put a calming collar like adaptil on her at the same time. If this doesn't help, I would talk to your vet about putting her on an anti-anxiety medicine like fluoxetine to see if this helps. I hope this helps!

It is possible Petey has built up a tolerance to Trazodone. This can happen if used long term. Discuss an increase with your veterinarian. Consider also desensitization therapy and a pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser, to further help decrease anxiety.