Noise aversion is an issue that affects many dogs
Are you a pet parent to a dog that struggles with noise aversion? Well, you’re not alone. More dogs struggle with noise aversion than you may think. This issue is common, but the good thing is there are many ways that pet parents can help. The first step is understanding why your canine companion may have anxiety about specific noises. The second step is comforting them so that they can have the best quality of life. Read on to learn more details.
What Is Noise Aversion?
We define “noise aversion” as a reaction to unexpected, loud noises. Dogs aren’t the only species that have adverse reactions to particular sounds. Thunder, fireworks, and gunshots can alarm anyone. Anxiety often stems from unexpected occurrences in general, let alone loud, sudden noises. Some dogs are predisposed to anxiety about noises, while others develop it much later in life. When noise aversion sets in, it becomes more challenging to treat, but it is more than possible. Excellent treatment, along with love and care, can keep your canine companion’s anxiety at bay.
Signs That Your Dog is Anxious
- Running Away
- Vocalizations, such as whining and barking
- Trembling or shaking
- Pacing
- Hiding
- Immobility (e.g., your dog seeming paralyzed)
- Unusual Clinginess
- Lack of Motivation to Eat
- Excessive/Uncontrollable Urination
- Retreating Ears
Treatments
Because pets are like family, you naturally attune to their behavior over time. When you’ve been a pet parent for a while, you learn to recognize when your pets are happy, sad, frustrated, sick, and yes, anxious. Once you know the triggers for anxiety, you can then begin to offer comfort to your pets. Here are a few recommendations coming from our experienced veterinarians:
- Find what we call a “safe space” for your pet to get away from the noise.
- Use Adaptil, a spray that releases pheromones to help calm your dog and reduce anxiety.
- Distract your dog by playing with them, smearing peanut butter into a Kong chewing toy works well!
- Implement exposure therapy so that your canine companion becomes desensitized over time.
- Buy a Thundershirt, a veterinarian-recommended wrap that provides gentle, constant pressure to your dog’s body to reduce anxiety and calm them down. (80% effective!!!!)
- Have your dog take medications such as Sileo, the first FDA-approved noise aversion treatment for dogs.
- Reach out to us!!! We are the best reference.
Here at Mount Carmel Animal Hospital, We’ll Treat Your Pets Like Family!
Mount Carmel Animal Hospital has been serving the Northern Baltimore/Southern York community for over 30 years and is proud to be an independently operated, small animal practice committed to excellence in veterinary medicine and client service. From grooming to wellness services, along with Canine Life Skills Training Courses, and surgical procedures, we have the expertise that will best serve the needs of you and your pet. Contact us at 410-343-0200 and follow us on Facebook!