Noise aversion affects a large number of dogs and is more common than some people know.
Noise aversion affects a large number of dogs and is more common than some people know. Noise aversion refers to a reaction to unexpected loud noises without a pattern, such as fireworks or thunder. When you recognize that your dog experiences anxiety when they hear loud noises and understand how to comfort them, this understanding enhances your pet’s quality of life. Some dogs may already have a sensitivity to loud noises when they are young, while others may develop it later in life. When this condition goes ignored, it becomes harder to treat it. When you seek out comfort, it goes a long way in making your pet more comfortable. Here is a look at the harmful effects of not treating noise aversion and how you can aid in treating it.
The Harmful Effects of Not Treating Noise Aversion
The behaviors that dogs can engage in when they’re anxious can be harmful or destructive. You may notice that your canine companion exhibits minor discomfort such as shaking, restlessness, excessive panting, hiding, retreating ears, and/or seeking comfort from you. Then, there are more harmful behaviors such as uncontrollable urination, destructive chewing, immobility, or even vomiting. If you’re a pet parent with a canine companion who struggles with noise aversion, there is hope. Various treatments exist.
Treatments
The most effective way to comfort your canine companion is to not expose them to the kinds of sounds that give them anxiety. Not exposing them to these sounds may mean keeping them away from large crowds and finding someone to watch them as you go out to an Independence Day celebration where there are fireworks. If the loud noises happen to be in your home, you should always have a safe space or location for them to feel more comfortable and get away from the noise. When avoidance is not an option, such as with thunderstorms, other treatments include:
- Use Adaptil, a pheromone-releasing spray that calms dogs and reduces anxiety.
- Distracting your canine companion by playing with them, try smearing peanut butter on a Kong chewing toy!
- Try exposure therapy, mainly when your dog is a pup, so they become desensitized.
- Buy a Thundershirt, a veterinarian-recommended product that provides pressure to your dog’s body to help calm them.
- Try Sileo, the first FDA-approved noise aversion treatment for dogs, or other sedatives one of our doctors can prescribe.
- Call us! We are the best resource!
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!