Some pets are very nervous and will become exceedingly distressed by loud bangs and noises. Unfortunately it can be very difficult to bring the dogs anxiety levels down to bearable levels. However, there are few pets with noise phobias that will not benefit from some simple remedies.

PLAN AHEAD - COME SEE US IN MID-OCTOBER

Some remedies for noise phobias need to be in place 2 or even 3 weeks before the bonfire night. A sedative tablet given just before the start of a firework display will have little effect on the pet’s anxiety levels if this is the only remedy in place. Contact Heathlands no later than mid-October to discuss preventative measures.

MEDICAL MANAGEMENT

All dogs’ showing signs of noise phobias should have be treated with a DAP diffuser from 2 weeks before bonfire night. DAP stands for Dog Appeasing Pheromone , a smell hormone that has been shown to have a major effect in relieving anxiety in adult dogs. DAP reduces phobic behavior by about 80% and may be effective as a sole treatment if therapy is started in good time. The diffuser is placed in the room most used by the dog in the day. The diffuser is left on continuously for 2 weeks prior to the start of the bonfire season. DAP has no side-effects and can be used on an ongoing basis for the phobic dog. The pheromone produced has been shown to have major physiological effects in the dog, and thus this treatment is NOT a form of aromatherapy.

Dogs with more severe problems may require tranquillization during the evening. Traditional tranquilizers are often ineffective as extended periods of sedation may be required. This can be dangerous in older dogs. We have found that combination therapy with low doses of a propranolol used together with low doses of a barbiturate anesthetic (phenobarbitone) works very well to control phobic behavior. Treatment also has to be begun at least 2 weeks before bonfire night for best effect.

DESENSITISATION

Dogs with noise phobias can often be cured of their problems by using by using commercially available desensitization audio tapes or CDs. Repeated exposure to this type of stimulus will gradually convince your pet that this type of noise is nothing to worry about.

TAKE CHARGE

Often noise phobias become worse as the animal ages. It is often the case that the owners of phobic dogs have reinforced the pet’s behavioral problem by dealing with their anxiety inappropriately. Don’t punish or scold the pet if they are scared – this only reinforces the pet’s belief that there is something to be scared about

Don’t fuss or try to reassure the pet when it is scared as this rewards nervous behavior. Yawn and look away from your pet - pets find this behavior calming.

If your dog is distressed do not let yourself become distressed as this will increase your dogs anxiety. The best response is no-nonsense good humour – take charge of the situation.

Always ignore any nervous behavior that takes place for no good reason.

MINIMISE THE STIMULUS

Before sundown the dog should be moved to a darkened room that is secure so that you pet cannot bolt if scared. A wire mesh cage can be turned into a cave-like refuge by covering it with an old blanket or duvet. Try to make the dog a refuge that it can feel safe in if it feels frightened.

Don’t leave your pet as this will only increase their anxiety

Put some music on

Ignore the noises yourself and try to engage the pet in some active game

If you know of a non-fearful pet dog – invite them round to play in the evening

Ear plugs can be made from moistened cotton wool packed into the ear canal