My new client was eager to talk about acupuncture for his senior dog, who was experiencing anxiety at night. As he shared what he and his wife were going through, I heard a mix of desperation and exhaustion in his voice. He was at the end of his rope, unsure where to turn for help.
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His wife, who was the dog's primary caretaker, was on the verge of a “nervous breakdown.” Those were his very words from her. Like many women, she was a light sleeper. She was also deeply devoted to her beloved dog and determined to provide him the best care at any price.
Every night she awoke to their dog's panting and pacing. The doting dog mom would get out of bed and do her best to settle her dog down by taking him outside of her, offering him water, turning on a fan, and moving to another room in the home — usually not available.
Night after night the pair would go through their ritual until the exhausted dog and mom finally collapsed together in the early morning hours.
Sadly, this is not a rare, isolated case. Senior dogs experiencing anxiety at night is all too common. Just like my new client and his wife, the problem can have a profound negative impact on everyone's quality of life.
Just recently, I received an email from Monica sharing her heart on the matter…
…I’ve been struggling with my 17-year-old chihuahua… I related so much to your YouTube video about dog cognitive disorder. I almost cried that someone had recognized and also understood what I've been experiencing day in day out (seemingly alone unable to even explain the despair from lack of sleep and lack of having any normal kind of social or work life due to my dog's needs now).
Needless to say, it has brought me to the brink so many times in recent months due to lack of getting a proper night's sleep and being unable to help my beloved boy who I rescued as a senior 7 years ago, and who has given me and my family and friends such tremendous joy. And who I now feel I'm letting down every time I lose my composure and because he's wanting something and I just don't know what else to give him…”
Can you relate to Monica's story? You're not alone. As a practicing veterinarian, I've heard many versions of this story from my clients. It's common for a client to casually mention that he or she is routinely up at night with the beloved senior dog. Often this has been going on for months. These dedicated dog parents “take one for the team,” assuming this is their new norm.
Take, for example, one of my favorite patients, Lacey, who just turned sweet sixteen. At her recent appointment, Lacey's mom described how she and her husband Ella take turns every other night getting up in the wee hours with Lacey.
“After we get her settled, she's able to fall back to sleep. But for me, I end up having to read a book for two hours before I can fall asleep again!”
She confessed, “This just isn't working too well.” I had no idea this was happening, but what she shared was extremely helpful to me helping Lacey.
If, like these pet parents, you find yourself dreading the evening hours, I want you to know there is hope and help. By communicating with your veterinarian and persevering toward a diagnosis, you and your dog can achieve more peaceful nights.