Elderly dog anxiety

[Allfurcoatandnoknickers]

Our 14yo JRT cross has had a tricky few months - she had an attack of vestibular disease last year followed
by haemorrhagic gastroenteritis ☹️
She’s never been a cuddly dog, but has withdrawn herself from us, and has noticeable cognitive decline. She’s also become head shy and isn’t keen on having her lead on.
Our vet has suggested a trial for fluoxetine and she’s started on these.
Has anyone had any noticeable improvements with these meds?

My ten year old recent rescue was on fluoxetine for five months, she’s weaning off it now. It was recommended by both her behaviourist and vet as she’d had a traumatic time when I got her. It’s been brilliant at giving her the support to engage with training. I’m not sure how much it would have done on its own but everyone who sees her remarks she’s a much improved dog. She did so well on it that I was in two minds whether or not to try weaning her off but decided that if necessary she’d go back on. It was a fraction of the price to pay for a prescription and get the tablets from my local pharmacy than to buy them via the vet.

My 14 year old Sprocker has been on them since October. They've definitely helped him, but we're off to the vet again tomorrow because his level of cognitive decline has really ramped up this week.

Hopefully we can have some other medication because despite his other various health issues, he's a really happy little chap and still enjoys life.

Thanks both - that's good to know. She is still enjoying her walks, and is very fit still but her cognitive decline is a worry. Can you remember how long it took to kick in? I've heard that the loading period is around 4-6 weeks :(

Nothing like that for my old boy, we noticed a difference within about a week.

Hope it helps your girl too, dogs are just such precious wee souls aren't they?

That’s reassuring. She’s on Day 3 so early days