Noise Phobia in Dogs

Storm and Noise Phobias

                Thunderstorms have been rolling through York County and July Fourth fireworks are just around the corner.  Many dogs (and some cats!) can be fearful of these and other loud noises.  Pets may pant, pace, tremble, hide in strange places, drool excessively or destroy things in an attempt to get away from the noise.   So, what can you do if your pet has a storm or noise phobia?

                First, do not overly comfort your pet when he or she is anxious.  Many pets seek their owners’ attention when they are nervous or afraid; however, when we cuddle them and repeatedly tell them “It’s okay,” we are unwittingly reinforcing the undesirable behavior and actually feeding their anxiety.  It is fine to let your pet sit next to you, but limit physical contact and do not talk to your pet.  Ignoring nervous behavior is best.  And, it should go without saying that punishing anxious behavior will only make it worse, so, never punish a fearful pet.  Try not to project fear or anxiety over a storm yourself—dogs often pick up on human emotions, so be calm and confident for your pet. 

                Second, non-medication options like Thundershirts^TM, pheromone products and calming exercises or distractions may reduce fear of storms and noises in some dogs.  Desensitization may also be attempted by playing recordings of thunderstorms at low levels and gradually increasing the volume over time such that the dog no longer reacts to the noise.  Providing access to a crate or other small area such as a bathroom or closet with some bedding provides a safe place for your pet to hide and ride out the storm if they wish.  Blocking noise and visual cues from a storm by closing window blinds and using a fan, white noise machine or classical music can also help.

                Finally, for those seriously affected dogs that destroy things or may harm themselves attempting to escape, a variety of anti-anxiety medications are often employed.  Patton Veterinary Hospital also carries a drug produced by Zoetis specifically for treating noise phobias in dogs called Sileo.  Sileo is a gel that is administered along the gumline.  It takes about twenty minutes to take effect and should calm your dog without sedating her, although some small pets or those sensitive to the active ingredient may experience sedation.

Ask one of our vets what medications or treatments might be right for your pet so he or she can have a quiet and fear-free summer!

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