The successful use of medications and behavior modification in the treatment of a dog rescued from an animal hoarding situation: A case report

An approximately 2-year-old, male neutered, Australian Cattle Dog mix was presented to the Atlantic Veterinary College shortly after being adopted from a local humane society. The dog was born into an animal hoarding situation and remained there until he was surrendered to a humane society at roughly two years, along with 76 other dogs from the same property. About 1 month after adoption, the owners noted that the dog was continuing to be fearful and withdrawn and sought a consultation with a board-certified veterinary behaviorist. He was diagnosed with fear/fearful behaviors and social anxiety. He responded favorably to treatment with the medications paroxetine, gabapentin, and alprazolam, and to a behavior modification protocol and environmental management designed to protect him as he recovered.