07/01/2022
🙏🏻🐶🐾
New Years Eve and July 4th can be the scariest nights of the year for many pets. At least 1 out of 3 dogs suffer from "noise aversion" (a fear of loud noises such as fireworks, thunderstorms, or construction noise). There are several things you can do to help, both before and during an episode. See below for how you can help.
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WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW:
- Microchip your pet and secure your environment. Many pets go missing every year when they get frightened and run away. Make sure your house and yard is escape-proof, and microchip your pet to dramatically increase the chances they return home safe in the event of an escape.
- Training techniques such as desensitization (slowly getting used to loud noises) and counter-conditioning (associating loud noises with something positive, like a special toy or treat) can help lessen your pet's anxiety when the fireworks start. (https://bit.ly/3A899zc)
- Talk to your vet. There are many other things you can do to prepare. Nutritional supplements such as Composure PRO Chews (https://bit.ly/3Oor5tQ) and calming pheromones like Adaptil (https://bit.ly/3eQGj9b) can provide non-prescription relief for many dogs. In some cases, prescription medications may be appropriate.
WHAT TO DO DURING THE FIREWORKS:
- Firstly, stay calm yourself. Do not scold or punish your pet; you may unintentionally reinforce that there is something to fear. Comfort but do not fuss over your dog since this may become a reward for the behavior, making future episodes even worse.
- Provide background noise from music (especially classical music, https://youtu.be/ZX0fl5P92bA) or television to distract from the noises outside. Moving to a room with no windows (or heavily curtained windows) will also lessen the noise and remove the additional problem of flashing lights.
- Provide plenty of familiar toys and games that might help to distract your pet, and try to arrange company for your dog rather than leaving him alone in the room. If your friend or relative has a dog that is not scared of loud noises and gets along well with your own, inviting them over can be a good idea. If you or your friend plays with the non-fearful dog when your own becomes scared, it may help to encourage him to join in and thus reduce his fear.
At Levy Veterinary Hospital, we are always happy to discuss all the available options for helping you and your dog to have a happy Independence Day. Call us at 504-575-3003 today to schedule an appointment or click the link to request an appointment online: https://levyvet.com/schedule
