Can I give my dog klonopin?

Drugs like Klonopin, generic name Clonazepam, are being used more than ever. Sometimes it’s tempting for owners to use these types of sedative medications for calming an anxious pet dog.

This prescription med is a benzodiazepine just like Valium and Xanax. The main difference is that Klonopin is not as fast acting. So what about its suitability, and more importantly its safety, for a dog?

We cannot recommend Klonopin. Use of this drug comes with higher risks for dogs and animals in general. That said, vets do sometimes utilize Clonazepam for treating canine insomnia, pain and anxiety.

Video: Klonopin Vs Xanax, Anxiety/Panic Attacks My Experience's

Can I Give My Dog Klonopin? Answer: Only when prescribed by a vet

There are numerous side effects as well as physical dependencies associated with misuse of this powerful drug.

Giving a dog Klonopin (Clonazepam) is likely not the right treatment, whether it be for anxiety, depression, poor sleep or pain. Even if you dose Klonopin correctly, there are safer and more appropriate solutions. Your dog may not react well to Klonopin. If taken for too long, Fido could develop a dependency. Clonazepam can also cause complications when interacting with other drugs.

Consider getting pet-formulated Rescue Remedy drops. It’s an equally effective stress reliever and much safer than Klonopin.

Klonopin Canine Conundrum

Often times, and unfortunately, we fix one problem while creating another. If you medicate your dog with Klonopin you could create a physical dependency. Clonazepam is addictive. That’s just one reason why you should involve a vet.

Klonopin side effects include change in appetite, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea. There’s also a chance that Clonazepam will have an opposite effect. Your dog could actually become hyperactive. Klonopin may be counterproductive to your objectives.

Dosing Guidelines for Dogs

To be clear, we do not advise giving any dog any Clonazepam or Ativan dose without professional guidance. If you plan to administer this drug, a proper dose of Klonopin is crucial. Only a vet can make the appropriate determination.

Video: what klonopin does

In general, oral dosing is 1mg for every 10 pounds of your dog’s body weight. Do not round up milligrams. This amount, every 8 hours, is considered reasonable. There may be other factors to take into account. It depends on your dog’s health situation.

Once again, it’s very important to speak with a vet before giving Klonopin.

Comparisons & Considerations

Clonazepam is in the same benzodiazepine class as Xanax. This means the two drugs work in very similar ways in regards to their effects on you or your dog.

Many people favor Valium (Diazepam) or Xanax over Klonopin because they kick in faster. This key difference is important to situational anxiety, but they all come with real risks for dogs.

Research the Alternatives

Most pet parents are, understandably, seeking a fast acting solution for their dogs. We encourage you to read our articles that cover medications that are similar to Klonopin.

Video: Klonopin Addiction and Klonopin Abuse

We also strongly urge you to consider a much safer solution designed specifically for pets. If you cannot afford to visit a local vet then choose a treatment strategy that won’t have regrettable consequences.

Conclusion on Clonazepam

Klonopin should only be used with a vet’s guidance. This is a powerful, addictive and potentially dangerous drug that comes with several side effects. There are much better alternatives, whatever your dog’s situation. Take heart that canine anxiety, and similar problems, can be effectively treated. Clonazepam may not appropriate or safe enough for your pet dog.

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