FDA Announcement: A New Option for Dogs with Anxiety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially approved a new medication designed to treat both noise aversion and separation anxiety in dogs—two of the most common and challenging behavioral issues faced by pet owners today.

Until now, treatment options have been limited and focused on individual conditions. For example:

• Sileo (dexmedetomidine) has been used specifically for noise aversion, helping dogs stay calm during fireworks or thunderstorms without heavy sedation
• Clomipramine (Clomicalm) has been prescribed for separation anxiety as part of a broader behavior modification plan

This newly approved medication called Tessie (tasipimidine oral solution) marks a significant advancement because it addresses both conditions simultaneously, recognizing that many dogs experience overlapping anxiety triggers.

Who This Medication Is For

This treatment may be appropriate for dogs that:

• Display fear or panic during loud noises such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or construction
• Show separation-related behaviors like excessive barking, destruction, pacing, or attempts to escape when left alone
• Have anxiety levels that cannot be managed through training alone

Always consult with your veterinarian team to determine if medication is the right choice for you, your pet, and your situation.

What This Means for Dog Owners

This FDA approval reinforces an important truth:

• Dog anxiety is a real medical and behavioral condition—not simply bad behavior.

With this new option, medication can play a more targeted and supportive role, especially when combined with proper training and environmental management.

Understanding the Scope of the Problem

Anxiety in dogs is more common than many people realize:

• Separation anxiety affects an estimated 20–40% of dogs seen by behavior professionals
• Nearly half of all dogs show fear responses to loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks

These issues can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Self-injury
• Property damage
• Chronic stress and health concerns
• Strained relationships between dogs and their families
• Pet relinquishment

Why Medication Alone Isn’t the Full Solution

While this FDA-approved medication is an exciting development, it should not be viewed as a standalone solution.

Veterinary and behavior experts agree that anxiety medications are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

At Burnell Pet Care and Education, we advocate for a whole-dog approach, which includes:

• Behavior modification training
• Environmental adjustments
• Mental enrichment and emotional support
• Guidance from qualified professionals

Proven Ways to Help Dogs with Noise Aversion

Even with medication, dogs benefit greatly from structured support. Here are proven strategies to help manage noise-related anxiety:

Create a Safe Space

Dogs often feel more secure in enclosed, quiet areas during stressful events.

• Provide a crate (if your dog is comfortable with it) or a quiet interior room
• Use white noise or calming music to mask loud sounds
• Close curtains or blinds to reduce visual triggers

Desensitization and Counterconditioning

Gradually exposing your dog to low-level versions of triggering sounds while pairing them with positive experiences can help reduce fear over time.

Working with a trained professional such as a trainer or a Fear Free Certified Professional can help immensely.

Maintain Routine and Predictability

Consistency helps dogs feel safe. Keeping routines stable during stressful events can reduce anxiety.

Avoid Flooding

Forcing your dog to endure overwhelming situations can increase fear and damage trust. Always work at your dog’s pace.

How to Help Dogs with Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety requires a structured and thoughtful approach:

Gradual Independence Training

Teach your dog to be alone in small, manageable increments, slowly increasing duration over time using positive reinforcement.

Minimize Departure Triggers

Common cues like grabbing keys or putting on shoes can trigger anxiety. Practice these actions without leaving to reduce their impact.

Never Punish Anxiety Behaviors

Destructive or vocal behaviors are signs of distress—not disobedience. Punishment can worsen anxiety.

Work with a Certified Specialist

One of the most effective ways to address separation anxiety is by working with a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT).

Learn more here: https://malenademartini.com/

Find a CSAT using the CSAT Directory.

CSAT professionals specialize in:

• Science-based separation anxiety protocols
• Remote coaching and customized training plans
• Humane, non-aversive methods

Medication + Training: The Most Effective Approach

The best outcomes for dogs with anxiety come from combining:

✔ Veterinary-prescribed dog anxiety medication
✔ Structured behavior modification
✔ Professional support (such as CSAT trainers)
✔ A calm and supportive home environment

Medication can help reduce the intensity of anxiety, allowing your dog to better learn and respond to training.

Final Thoughts

The FDA’s approval of a new medication for dog separation anxiety treatment and noise aversion is a major step forward in improving canine mental health.

However, it’s important to remember:

• There is no single quick fix for anxiety
• Long-term success comes from combining medical support, training, and compassionate care

If your dog is struggling with anxiety, know that you’re not alone—and there are effective, humane solutions available to help both you and your pet.

About Burnell Pet Care and Education

At Burnell Pet Care and Education, we are dedicated to helping dogs and their families build safer, calmer, and more confident lives together through:

• Pet safety education
• Behavior-focused care
• Enrichment-based services
• Personalized guidance for real-world challenges

If your dog is experiencing anxiety, we’re here to help you find the right path forward.