Help! I Need Help with Products! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hi Dr. Paola,
Some stickers sold online by Natpat claim to calm and relax your pet. They are called pet zen vapor stickers and are non-mediated. The package claims the stickers are made with plant-based ingredients, eco-friendly, and vet-formulated. You place the sticker in a locket and attach it to the dog’s collar. I want to try it on Murphy, my 22-pound King Charles Cavalier to calm and reduce his barking. Do you have any information on this product? Thank you for considering my question ” – Jan
Quick Info about Murphy
Hi Jan,
Thank you very much for your trust. While I have no direct experience with this product, I will try to help answer your question as best as I can.
One of our writers, Emily Muller, reviewed this product on our site. She tested it on her adorable dog, Micah, and reported that just a couple of minutes after placing the sticker on the collar, Micah was noticeably calmer. You can read her review and enjoy some amazing photos of her gorgeous pup.
Ensuring the collar is properly secured so that Murphy cannot get to it is important. While the risk of adverse reactions is low, you should monitor Murphy for any unusual signs when introducing the stickers, as individual sensitivities can vary. If you notice any adverse reactions, discontinue use immediately.
Likewise, it’s essential to remember that barking is a natural form of communication for dogs. While some barking is normal, excessive barking can indicate underlying causes such as anxiety, boredom, territorial behavior, or learned habits. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed may be prone to vocalizing due to excitement or separation distress rather than aggression. While the Pet Zen Vapor Stickers may help promote relaxation, they won’t directly address the root cause of his barking. If Murphy barks out of habit or in response to triggers like outside noises, behavioral training paired with calming aids might be more effective.
Positive reinforcement training can help teach Murphy alternative behaviors. Rewarding quiet moments with treats, engaging him in puzzle toys to keep his mind stimulated, and using commands like “quiet” with consistent reinforcement can gradually reduce unnecessary barking. If his barking stems from separation-related distress, gradually increasing his comfort with alone time and providing calming background sounds may also help. Combining training with tools like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps might offer additional support. While natural calming aids like the Pet Zen stickers may contribute to an overall sense of relaxation, their effectiveness will vary between dogs. If Murphy’s barking remains persistent or increases in intensity, consulting a behaviorist specialist may be beneficial as they can create a personalized handling and training plan for Murphy. I hope this helps!
Sincerely, Dr. Paola