Oh, honey, I'm so sorry
Definitely try the Cymbalta. It usually works within 7 days. I was in a clinical trial for it a few years ago just before it came to market -- compressed spinal cord in my neck, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain in my hands and feet. Unbelievable relief. If it's gonna work for you, you should see effects within a week.
Try playing classical musical softly near your feather-babies to see if that will calm them. You can usually find a classical music station on the radio.
You have to get a small padlock with a key or something like that to keep the dog away. Maybe the dog is picking up on the pain signals that your feeling
I hope everybody's OK. I'll be glad when your friend gets back so you can get a real hug instead of a cyber hug
BIG HUGS (and love).
Barb