Ballistic With Other Dogs

[MagmiknEm]

My neighbor is in the hospital and will be incapacitated perhaps for months.   She has a loveable Jack Russell female who goes ballistic when she sees other dogs she does not know or like to the point where she is unmanageable.   She has pulled my neighbor's shoulder several times.

My neighbor loves her and does not want to give her away.   She rescued the dog from drug addicts whom she suspects may have given the dog drugs.   I've seen the dog go crazy at the sight of a strange dog.   It's not pretty.

She would like to know if there are any medications she could give the dog that might calm her down so that she can keep the dog.

Thanks.

MK...a neighbor.

[Jim Humphries, B.S., D.V.M.]

JRT's are very, very, very energetic!!  Did I say very??  

Their spring is wound pretty tight.  I've seen many that are literally uncontrollable.  Also they think they are 140 pounds and will go after any one or any thing that invades their territory.  Sounds like what is happening here.  

Short of A LOT of obedience training, medication may be a good option.  Today we do have a variety of meds that will help.  They are all prescribed by a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and therefore an exam and a consult will be necessary.  Probably would help - but my guess is that meds alone will not be a complete solution.  

[Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM]

Hello
Exercise is quite helpful as is behavioral modification. Taking this dog with you to as many places as possible and allowing her to meet other dogs for short periods of time in a controlled environment will be helpful.
Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM