Noise Phobias in Pets

Noise Phobias

               July fourth and many other summer celebrations include fireworks. Fireworks and summer storms often lead to anxious, frightened pets.  What can you do to ease your pet’s fear of fireworks and other loud noises?

• Give your pet a safe space.  Many pets instinctively try to hide when they are frightened.  Dogs may try to squeeze into tight spaces when loud noises startle them.  If your pup is cowering in the bathroom or under the bed, provide a safe space by setting up a crate, allowing your pet to hide under a blanket or allowing him to hide out in a small room or closet.  Tight fitting vests like the Thundershirt may provide a calming effect. And, if your pet wants to snuggle close to you, it’s okay to let her do so, but try to avoid giving too much attention as this may inadvertently reinforce the anxious behavior.
• Desensitize your pet.  Some pets may become less reactive if exposed to the sounds of thunder or fireworks in a controlled situation. Find recordings of storms (or record your own!) and, when your pet is calm, play the recording at a low volume.  Turn off the recording if your pet shows signs of distress.  If he or she remains calm, gradually turn up the volume and watch for signs of anxiety.  You can combine playing the recordings with calming supplements or medications if needed.  Reward your pet or have him or her play with an interactive puzzle toy or Kong brand toy stuffed with treats to reinforce calm behavior. If your pet looks anxious, stop the recording and remove the food toy.  This method takes time, but may work if your pup is showing signs of being fearful of loud noises for the first time.
• Try supplements.  Some dogs and cats with mild noise phobias may be calmed by supplements containing natural ingredients such a herbs, tryptophan or casein.  Pheromone products like Feliway for cats or Adaptil for dogs may also reduce stress.  If your fur baby has severe noise aversions, these may not be quite enough to keep her calm, but supplements can be used in conjunction with other medications.
• Use calming medications.  Let’s face it, days of booming fireworks or severe thunderstorms can rattle the best of us, and for our pets who have sensitive hearing, many are downright terrified by loud noises and can go into a full-on panic.  It’s unlikely your pet will suffer something serious like a heart attack, but, their fear and distress can be difficult to witness.  We’ve also seen pets burst through screen doors and glass windows and escape from crates when frightened which can lead to injuries or to pets getting lost if they manage to get outside.Anti-anxiety drugs can provide short term relief from stress and fear. 
• NOTE: cats are less likely to be frightened by thunder and fireworks, but some kitties can suffer from nose phobias as well and medications and supplements can be used if needed.

Patton Veterinary Hospital, is here to help, but, if your pet typically needs medication to get through Fourth of July (and the days of celebration that often follow), PLEASE do not wait until July 3^rd to refill your pet’s medication.  Plan ahead, check your pet’s medication supply and request a prescription now. 

Our staff wishes you and your furry family members a safe and Happy Fourth of July!

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital, serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/features/dog-storm-phobia#1

https://fearfreehappyhomes.com/storm-brewing-get-inside-your-dogs-head-to-help-him-manage-fear/