Happy Dog / Cat Package Handout

Give your pet the best start with our Happy Dog/Cat Package. This guide walks you through everything included so you know exactly how we support your new companion.

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What’s Included in Your Happy Dog / Cat Package

What Is a “Happy Dog/Cat Package”?

A Happy Dog/Cat Package is a combination of medications given before a veterinary visit to help reduce fear, anxiety, and stress.

People use similar medications for situations such as fear of flying or dental visits. When combined with training (behaviour modification), low-stress handling techniques, and clinic environmental adjustments, these medications can greatly improve your pet’s comfort during their visit.

Dogs and cats express fear and stress in different ways. Some may freeze and refuse treats, some may hide behind you, and others may growl or bite. Regardless of how stress is expressed, every pet deserves to feel safe and comfortable during their veterinary visit. Your pet’s emotional well-being is just as important as their physical well-being.

Medications That May Be Prescribed

Gabapentin
Commonly used to manage chronic pain and may also help reduce anxiety caused by short-term triggers such as veterinary visits or thunderstorms.

Trazodone
Increases serotonin levels in the brain and helps reduce anxiety. It is commonly used as a short-term anti-anxiety medication.

Composure Pro
A natural supplement that helps with noise sensitivity. It does not cause additional sedation, only a sense of calm. This is not recommended as a sole option for pets experiencing stress levels higher than 2–3.

Clonidine / Sileo
Provides additional sedation when needed. These medications act quickly and do not last as long as other options.

Important Medication Information

Please keep your pet calm once you begin administering medications. This helps them work effectively.

Normal Side Effects May Include:

  • Sedation

  • Unsteady or “drunken” gait

  • Relaxed or droopy eyelids and/or redness

  • In cats, pupils may appear dilated or constricted

Less commonly, some pets may become more excited. In older pets, you may notice throat clearing or more pronounced sedation.

These side effects are short-acting and typically wear off within 6–12 hours.

If you have any concerns before or after administering these medications that are not listed above, please call the clinic at (613) 969-0537.
Clinic hours: Monday – Thursday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

When You Arrive for Your Appointment

  • Keep your pet relaxed in the car until an exam room is ready, and we have reviewed the history questions with you by phone.

What Else Can I Do to Help My Pet?

  • Bring your pet’s favourite treats and/or toys from home

  • Let us know about any known triggers before your visit or before handling begins

  • For cats, cover the carrier with a towel (ask us about Feliway)

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