How Fluoxetine Treats Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Much like some humans suffer from anxiety related to social events, or have phobia-induced anxiety, dogs can also experience a form of anxiety. In fact, the same medication that is often prescribed for anxiety disorders in humans may be prescribed to dogs suffering from separation anxiety. That means that you can also save on your pet’s medication by using an RxSaver prescription drug coupon at a pharmacy near you.

Here’s how fluoxetine treats separation anxiety in dogs.

What is separation anxiety in dogs?

Dogs who suffer from separation anxiety are typically overly attached to a member of their family. Signs that dogs may be overly attached or dependent upon a family member include:

• Remaining very close to the family member at all times
• Rarely spending time alone outside
• Craving a lot of physical contact from their owners
• Demanding attention from their owners

Once their owner has left, or as their owner is preparing to leave, dogs that have separation anxiety engage in unusual, destructive, behavior. Some of these behaviors may include:

• Howling, barking, crying, whining
• Soiling the inside of the home
• Chewing furniture, clothing, shoes, toys, crates, doors, flooring, etc.
• Shaking
• Shivering
• Salivating
• Refusing to eat
• Withdrawing
• Escaping
• Pacing

How does fluoxetine help separation anxiety for dogs?

Fluoxetine, more commonly known as the human prescription drug Prozac, is prescribed to pets who exhibit anxiety on a regular basis. Fluoxetine, like any selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), works to increase serotonin levels within the central nervous system.

The increase of serotonin helps to balance the system and alter neurotransmitters in a specific way. This helps to reduce destructive-like anxiety behaviors, such as chewing on crate wires or digging through floors.

How to Get a Prescription for Fluoxetine

Your dog will need to be diagnosed with anxiety by their veterinarian in order to get a prescription for fluoxetine. It is not available over-the-counter.

When talking with your veterinarian, tell them about all vitamins, supplements, or other medications your dog takes. If your dog has a history of seizures or other medical conditions, be sure your vet is aware.

If your veterinarian decides that medication may help your dog they may prescribe an FDA-approved form of Fluoxetine, which is labeled to treat separation anxiety in dogs.

How to Save on Fluoxetine Costs for Pets

If your pet is prescribed fluoxetine or any other medication that is also used to treat medical conditions in humans, ask your veterinarian to send the prescription to the pharmacy that offers the best RxSaver coupon price for the medication. Then just show the coupon when you pick up the prescription, to get the discount price.

The cost of fluoxetine without insurance starts at $4.00 for 20 mg and 30 capsules using an RxSaver coupon.

Chat With Your Veterinarian

Before you take your pet to the vet, try to have specific details and examples of their behavior fresh in your mind. Consider jotting down notes detailing your dog’s symptoms to share with your vet, so you can provide the most accurate information possible.

If your veterinarian suspects your dog is suffering from separation anxiety, they will determine what dosage, and how often fluoxetine or another medication should be administered.

*Lowest online price at national pharmacy chains Costco, CVS, RiteAid, Walgreens and Walmart as of 2/26/2021. Prices vary by location and pharmacy, see RxSaver.com for actual pricing in your area.