Phobias and nervous disorders can be really hard to deal with – both for pets and from their owners’ perspectives. Widely used as a treatment for noise phobias and fears associated with fireworks, thunder and gunfire, as well as for general excitability and hyperactivity, this herbal medicine is one of our best sellers.
It calms and relaxes dogs or cats without causing drowsiness or sedation, enabling them to have improved concentration, making it ideal for use in showing, agility, or sporting activities.
Popular for use in travel-related anxiety and also for territorial urine spraying in cats, this licensed product is also used under veterinary supervision to control epilepsy, often alongside conventional treatments. Top tip – buy your supply of Scullcap and Valerian Tablets well in advance of fireworks night (there’s often huge demand around this time.)
How do these work and will they sedate my dog?
They are not sedatives, in fact these are widely used for performance dogs such as agility and show dogs when they need to be alert and focussed. The herbs are nervines, that means they help to naturally relax the nervous system which reduces anxiety yet does not sedate muscles.
Can I use the tablets and liquid together?
Scullcap & Valerian Tablets used daily provide better coverage and are ideal to start using in the lead up to Fireworks Night so they are already nice and relaxed before the scary noises start. Valerian Compound is quicker-acting and is perfect to use orally as a "top-up" and for unpredicted events such as a neighbours having a fireworks display or a thunder storm. It is ideal to put a few drops on a cloth on their bed to help them relax, cats love this especially.
When do I need to start giving the products?
The more severe the phobia, the earlier you should start, up to a month in some cases. For moderate phobias, start around 10 days before the predicted worst night. However, even if you only start the day or so before your dog will still benefit.
Why should I use Dorwest calming products?
Scullcap & Valerian tablets are the only herbal product to be officially authorised by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate to help anxiety and nervousness. They have been used successfully for over 40 years and are a medicine you can rely on. Our ingredients reach medicinal standards and we follow rigorous regulations on safety and quality.
What dosage/administration should I use?
For Scullcap & Valerian Tablets the dosage is 1 - 2 tablets per 5kgs bodyweight daily, ideally given as two split doses, depending on the severity of the condition. For use on singular occassions, give 12 hours and 2 hours before the event using the higher dosage rate.
Are they suitable for use during pregnancy/lactation?
Scullcap & Valerian Tablets are not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation - if you are unsure please contact our advice line for further information.
Are there any interactions?
Scullcap & Valerian Tablets may be given in conjunction with other medicines - if you are unsure please contact our advice line for further information.