Tips for Pets with Noise Phobias

 Tips for Pets with Storm and Noise Phobias

               July Fourth is coming and Independence Day celebrations (and many summer activities) are bound to include fireworks. 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 usually found cowering in the bathroom or under the bed 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 pup stay in that bathroom or closet.  Tight fitting vests like the Thundershirt may provide a calming effect. 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 the recording off 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 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.
• 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.  Frantic pets may also burst through screen doors, glass windows or escape from crates which can lead to serious injuries or to lost pets 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.

Remember, Patton Veterinary Hospital, is here to help, but, if your pet typically needs medication to handle fireworks and July Fourth celebrations, PLEASE do not call the day before 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/