panting, pacing, staring at nothing...

Question
I have a 13 year old spaniel that has been extremely healthy except for his hearing (losing it slowly this past year). Every few weeks, in the late evening, he becomes very anxious and can spend hours and hours pacing, panting and sometimes just sitting staring at nothing in particular. Nothing seems to calm him (walking, pating, etc.)...putting him in an enclosed space to stop the pacing only makes him more anxious. Nothing has changed in his routine recently.

I assume its old age (dementia perhaps)...

Any thoughts? Anything I could give him to calm him on these difficult evenings?

Thank you in advance,

Michael

Answer
I think you guessed right, Michael.  However, there's a medication called Anipryl that can help a lot.  
Also, some holistic vets advise trying Cholodin R.
If you go to EntirelyPets.com and type in "Cholodin R" in their search box, you can read up on that.
Your vet can give you some Anipryl - it's expensive but I know from personal experience, it works well.

At age 13 & healthy, I'd certainly give either of these a try.  The Cholodin is not expensive - safe - and you can order it online.  I'd definitely discuss this with your vet.
Best of luck with your boy,
Delores