sleep problems

[liza22]

I have an elderly Golden Retriever, who has bouts of sleep problems at night, where she will wonder round the house,she doesnt cry and she doesnt pant, its just annoying for us, who are trying to sleep. My vet has given her some diazapen, which does help. I was just wondering if any of you guys out there has a similar problem with a dog or cat.

[Illyria54]

Why does it annoy you, you have obviously had this dog a long time, unfortunately old age comes to us all, my last German Shepherd lived for 13.5 years and he used to wander during his last months, he was basically going a bit senile which is what could be happening to your dog, my dog also as time went on became slightly incontinent, not urine either, it's part of the aging process, if your vet thinks she is otherwise healthy then don't worry about her, just try to be patient.

[wolf63]

As Illyria54 says above - your dog is showing signs of senility. My last dog had similar habits towards his latter years and you actually get used to it.

[woofgang]

be careful with the diazepam, from experience with our old lady some dogs become accustomed to it and it then makes them more restless as the "out of control" feeling can be worrying and they can end up staggering around which is stressful for the pet and dangerous. Could you discuss using a herbal remedy with your vet (ours recommends skullcap and valerian in a formula made especially for dogs) Is her bed super comfortable? maybe a small milky drink at bedtime?