Advice please - medication/remedies to calm dog for flight.

[teesidegirl]

Hi
My in-laws are moving abroad in April and are taking their 11 year old spaniel with them. They have already bought a flight crate which is in their lounge and sensibly they have already introduced him to it and are gradually increasing the time he spends in it which is going well.
They are concerned as he is quite a highly strung dog, and doesnt often spend time alone. They know he cant be sedated for the journey but are worried he will panic.
I'm hoping someone here might be able to suggest something they could give him that would calm/relax him to make the move as easy and as safe as possible.
Thank you.

[vickyb]

I'd have a word with the vet but I wonder about childrens travel sickness tablets? they should be calming. My vet suggested them for one of ours who was a bit anxious in the car. Whatever they decide I would have a trial run at home to see how it affected them. They could try rescue remedy. You can get an Adaptil spray, the same stuff as in the diffuser which they could spray on the bedding. Again I'd try in advance and see if it seems to make a difference.
Hope all goes well.

[samburns]

As part of the preparation getting used to the flight crate is it possible they can take him for journeys in the car in it, extending the time gradually? 

[thedogpack]

zylkene could be helpful too . Good for stressful situations , fireworks , moving house , going into kennels . Needs to be used for a few days prior to the event .

Natural . made from milk protein and the proteins ' lock on ' to the fear receptors in the brain . Non prescription so can be ordered on line too .  

[Ted]

Xanax which is a human calming prescription can be given by your vet provided you are willing to sign a form to say you know it has never been tested on animals. I have it for Merlin who panics at Thunder and loud noises produced by heavy rain, wind or both. Within 30 minutes they have forgotten why they were panicking. Cost is £24 for a box of 60 and normally given 2 at a time when necessary. Do not give daily except if necessary as it can cause withdrawal problems later, they get addicted to Xanax.