Listen to the MWD handler! If a handler seeks guidance for his or her working dog due to abnormal, inappropriate, or change in behavior in the first 30 days after a traumatic event or combat action, the following steps are recommended:

• Annotate a complete history of behavior prior to the event (or create a behavioral timeline if a specific event was not observed), details surrounding the event, and a chronology and progression of the MWDs behavior after the event. It is highly recommended to forward this information to the overseeing veterinary clinical specialist (AOC 64F) with request for consultation with a military veterinary behaviorist.
• Direct the handler to immediately remove the dog from the triggering situation, if not already done.
• Upon approval from the supporting veterinary officer, provide an anxiolytic drug. Examples of primary medications and adjunctive medications are provided in Table 2.

NOTE: These medications should not be stopped abruptly. If giving daily for more than two weeks, a short weaning period is indicated. Please contact a military veterinary behaviorist if you need additional guidance.