VNJ Articlesanimal welfareClinical examinationPre-visit pharmaceuticalSileoVeterinary visit
13 August 2026
Managing examination stress in minimally socialised beagles: dexmedetomidine oromucosal gel versus Aptus Relax food supplement: A comparison study.
Lena Olsén, RVN, PhD
Julia Samuelsson, BSc, RVN, Therése Brodin, BSc, RVN, Jonna Ljungström, RVN, Anna Olsén, BSc and Fanny Sandqvist, BSc, RVN
ABSTRACT Stress in dogs visiting veterinary clinics can complicate examinations, diagnosis and treatments, and is also a risk for injuries. Dexmedetomidine is a potent sedative substance. In low doses, it reduces anxiety without a sedative effect. It is prescribed as an oromucosal gel (Sileo, Orion Pharma Animal Health; DEXO) to dogs in preparation for loud noises such as fireworks. The food supplement Aptus Relax (Orion Pharma Animal Health; FSAR), which contains the amino acids L-theanine and tryptophan, is marketed as contributing to calm and balanced behaviour. Theoretically, these preparations could ease stress associated with veterinary visits. The clinical effects of DEXO and FSAR were examined in a single-blinded crossover study with six newly imported and easily stressed beagles. Placebo, DEXO or FSAR were administered to the dogs, and their respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure and temperature were evaluated by veterinary nurses (VNs) blinded to the treatment, during a simulated, standardised clinical examination. Behavioural analyses of video-recorded interactions between the dogs and VNs were performed, evaluating the dogs’ interest in seeking contact and whether they voluntarily entered the room and/or got up on to the examination table. Analysis of the physiological parameters indicated a general calming effect from DEXO. The dogs’ willingness to seek contact on the examination table was not affected by treatment with either DEXO or FSAR.
Keywords Sileo, clinical examination, animal welfare, veterinary visit, pre-visit pharmaceutical
DOI: https://doi.org/10.56496/EGMT2173
To cite this article: Olsén, L., Samuelsson, J., Brodin, T., Ljungström, J., Olsén, A., and Sandqvist, F. (2026) Managing examination stress in minimally socialised beagles: dexmedetomidine oromucosal gel versus Aptus Relax food supplement: A comparison study. VNJ 41(4) pp18-27.
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