Fear of fireworks, thunderstorms, (associated with the change in barometric pressure, lightning, electrostatic disturbances, and even smells associated with storms), or gunshots is a common phobia in dogs. A noise phobia can be traced to a particular bad experience of a noise, but often, we cannot be certain what happens to trigger this fear.  

 

Signs of noise phobia can be hiding, urinating, defecating, chewing, panting, pacing, trying to escape (digging, jumping through windows or going through walls, running away), drooling, seeking the owner, expressing anal glands, not eating, not listening to commands, trembling or shaking, dilated pupils, or vocalizing.  Refrain from giving rewards or punishment.  This is extremely important.  Constant petting or consoling may be interpreted by the pet as a reward for the fearful response.  For example, if you comfort your pet during a thunderstorm, it may signal to the pet that the storm really is something they should fear.  Also, you should not punish your pet for showing fear. This only increases their anxiety level.  Changing the environment or behavior modification can help. In extreme circumstances, medication may help. By changing the environment of your pet during the storm or noise, the anxiety level can be reduced.  Changing the environment may reduce the volume level of the sound or help make the pet less aware of it.  Increase vigorous exercise more so on a day when the fear-producing noise is likely to occur.  Exercise will help your pet both mentally and physically, and may make them less responsive to the noise.  Exercise has the effect of increasing natural serotonin levels, which can act as a sedative.  "White noise", such as running a fan or air conditioner may aid in blocking out some of the fear-producing noise.  Playing a TV or radio can have a similar effect.  Allowing your pet access to the basement or a room without outside walls or windows may decrease the noise level.  Closing the windows and curtains can also help reduce the noise.  Some pets feel more comfortable in a small space such as a crate or a small room like a bathroom (run the fan and leave the lights on).  Some pets seek out the safety of a bathtub or shower during a storm, since the pet may feel less static electricity if on tile or porcelain.  If pet is comfortable in a create, it can be covered with a blanket to add the feeling of security.  The door of the crate should be left open so the pet is not confined to the crate which could dramatically increase their stress level.  Pets feed off their owners.  They look up to you for direction so be sure to keep an 'upbeat' and 'in charge' attitude.  Diets too high in protein have been linked to some behavioral problems.  Consult your veterinarian if you would like advice about changing your pet's diet.

 

Our information is intended as a resource and is not meant to replace medical or veterinary care, advice, or treatment.  Your first resource should always be your doctor, veterinarian, or behaviorist.