White Oak Animal Hospital

3 Reasons To Give Ginkgo For Anxiety In Pets

image for: 3 Reasons To Give Ginkgo For Anxiety In Pets

Does your pet suffer from anxiety?

Dogs may exhibit symptoms such as urinating in the house, drooling, panting, barking, pacing or destruction of household items.

Anxiety in pets is often brought on by separation, life changes such as moving homes, or loud noises like fireworks or thunder.

Many pet parents find ginkgo, derived from the Ginkgo biloba tree, is an effective and gentle anxiety remedy.

Ginkgo works well for dogs exhibiting nervousness and anxiety because of environmental stress, such as traveling, boarding, or separation.

Here are three examples of effective uses for ginkgo supplements.

1. Ginkgo For Anxiety In Dogs With Age-Related Behavior Changes

Many people use ginkgo for anxiety in dogs with aging-related personality changes.

For example, some older dogs experience disorientation, sleep changes, or other behavior problems.

Ginkgo is incredibly effective in treating canine age-related anxiety.

In fact, a study published by the US National Library of Medicine’s National Institutes of Health shows ginkgo is improving senior dogs’ quality of life.

For the study, scientists gave 42 elderly dogs (about 11 years old) a daily dose of ginkgo dietary supplement for eight weeks.

Symptoms noticeably improved after four weeks.

By the end of the study, 36 percent of dogs were completely free of symptoms.

Scientists deemed efficacy of treatment good or very good in 79 percent of dogs in the study.

Symptoms used in the study included disorientation, sleep/activity changes, behavioral changes, general behavior, and general physical condition/vitality.

The study authors conclude that ginkgo can increase the overall quality of life in elderly dogs.

2. Ginkgo For Anxiety In Dogs While Traveling

Some pet parents use ginkgo for anxiety in dogs during travel.

If your pet experiences aggression, shaking, drooling or whining during plane or car rides, try ginkgo.

Give your pet a ginkgo supplement approximately one hour before the trip and make them as comfortable as possible.

This may include bringing their favorite toy or blanket.

3. Ginkgo For Anxiety In Pets During Loud Noises

Pet parents use ginkgo for anxiety in pets when expecting loud noises.

For example, if you know fireworks or a thunderstorm is approaching, give your pet ginkgo supplements.

Your pet may want to be near you during this time, so a good snuggle in bed or on the sofa can help.

Get their favorite toy or blanket to help them relax.

Sometimes a white noise machine and some lavender oil can help too.

How To Administer Ginkgo

Ginkgo is suitable for long-term use.

As with all herbs and supplements, consult your veterinarian before giving your pet ginkgo.

Ginkgo is not proven safe for use in pregnant animals or animals intended for breeding.

If your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve, stop product administration and consult your veterinarian.

Do not use with MAO inhibitors or sedatives with Ginkgo.

Use ginkgo with caution with ACE inhibitors, NSAID’S, and aspirin.

Use ginkgo with caution in animals with a pre-existing bleeding disorder.

Do not use ginkgo prior to surgery.

Seeking an all-natural ginkgo supplement to alleviate your pet’s anxiety?

Try a supplement with other calming ingredients such as melatonin, chamomile, and passionflower.

Vet Classics Anxiety and Stress Soft Chews are formulated with a complex blend of botanicals to support calming behavior in dogs.

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