Fireworks and Noise Phobias

Fireworks and Noise Phobias

               It’s July Fourth so we wanted to repeat this blog as a public service announcement. Fireworks and thunderstorms often lead to anxious, frightened pets.  If you have a noise-sensitive pet, here are some tips to reduce stress and anxiety.

• 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 prone to hiding when she hears loud noises, you may want to provide a safe space by setting up a crate, allowing your pet to hide under a blanket or letting your pup stay in a bathroom or closet.  Tight fitting vests like the Thundershirt may provide a calming effect.
• Try supplements or distractions.  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 pet has severe noise aversions, supplements may not be quite enough to keep him completely calm, but they can be used in conjunction with other medications and may work for mild anxiety. Ask our vets for recommendations.  Zylkene, Rescue Remedy and Solliquin are common brands.  Providing distractions like puzzle toys or Kong toys stuffed with treats, and playing a TV or radio to drown out noises[SW1] may help to distract pets.
• Use calming medications.  Let’s face it, days of booming fireworks or severe thunderstorms can rattle the best of us, and many pets 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.  Frantic pets may also burst through screen doors or glass windows or escape from crates which can lead to serious injuries.  Pets may also become 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.  Medications and supplements can be used for cats, too, if needed.

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/