This is what happens when the builders across the road have a skip delivered. Deliveries are now regular most mornings. We've tried desensitising but can hardly get past volume level 2 before he walks out the room. After Selgian having no effect he's now on Sertraline prescribed by Vet behaviourist at RVC. I just don't know what more I can do to help this poor beast that I love so much.
I'm so sorry to hear this. Poor Homer, and poor you. I know you know I understand exactly what you're feeling. How long has he been on the Sertraline? Do you know how long it takes before it reaches maximum effect? The Fluoxetine took an age to really kick in with Willow. I'm sure it's just about finding the right drug for Homer. You'll get there, but I do feel for you in the meantime.
I've no idea if dogs are the same as humans when it comes to the effect of drugs but in humans antidepressants, both of which sertraline and fluoxetine are, take at least 10-14 days to start working. Once there is some recogniseable change, improvement builds cumulatively. But it's different for each person as to a) when they start to notice a change & b) when the medication reaches its maximum effect. But as I say, I don't know if it's the same for dogs. Poor Homer, and you, I really hope the medication works.
So sorry for you and Homer. Can you not have another word with your vet? You must feel helpless, but you are do your best for your darling boy.
He's been on Setraline for 4 weeks now. He definitely appears more himself with Setraline than Selgian. At first it appeared to be having a positive effect but this week with builders escalating their work and regular skip deliveries has set him off again. There are seven houses having extensive basement conversions in our short side street. I don't think the oppressive humidity and hot weather helps either. Hubby's helpful comment is that I should tidy up my shoes and put them back in the cupboard!
Fluoxetine is definitely the same in dogs. It took many weeks for the initial effects to kick in, and since then it seems we have had improvements week on week. But, it was very slow progress to begin with, so don't feel despondent, @Jes72. It's good news that the setraline seems to suit Homer better, just give it a chance. I noticed first with Willow how it would take her less time to recover after a stressful incident, which is very important, but the things that scared her still would. It's still early days, but it sounds like you're going in the right direction with this drug.
Homer will be with hubby next week as I'm away but I've given strict desensitising instructions - not sure they will be followed much and suspect he might be in the pub instead. Then 7 weeks of home alone time with him. I hope I can at least begin to make some progress and be around when the lorries arrive or take H out for a walk. I know it will take a lot longer for any real progress. Fiona, he does appear to settle more quickly than before but only if we are there to distract him. You've done so well with Willow.
