Video analysis of dogs suffering from anxiety when left home alone and treated with clomipramine

This study sought to film dogs with separation anxiety when left home alone while undergoing treatment with clomipramine and to compile objective information on behaviors exhibited. Twenty-three dogs ranging in age from 5 months to 9 years (mean, 3 ± 2 years) were included. The dogs were filmed when left home alone for variable periods ranging from 22 to 90 minutes after owner departure. Owners were required to film their dog on 5 occasions. Film 1 served to confirm a diagnosis of separation anxiety. Medication (clomipramine) was prescribed to all dogs. The owners were then asked to film the dogs on days 7, 14, 28, and 56 of the pharmacological treatment, but only 3 repetitions (days 0, 7, and 14) were used for statistical analysis. The initial dosage of clomipramine was 1 mg/kg twice daily for the first week and was then increased to 2 mg/kg twice daily. Any differences in behavior that occurred after clomipramine administration were evaluated using Friedman and Wilcoxon nonparametric tests. A significant beneficial effect of the dosage of 1 mg/kg every 12 hours of clomipramine in increasing passive behavior and reducing locomotion (pacing), scratching, and whining was demonstrated. A beneficial effect of 2 mg/kg every 12 hours in reducing vocalizations (barking and whining) and further increasing time spent in a passive state (resting or sleeping) was also shown. Some signs of separation anxiety may have improved as a consequence of the basic recommendations provided to the dog owners. This study not only confirms the importance of filming dogs home alone for the diagnosis of separation anxiety but also emphasizes the advantages of filming during the treatment of separation anxiety. Clinical effects can be seen as early as 1 week after starting the medication (clomipramine).