It's Too Loud! 4 Tips To Help Your Dog Cope With Noise Anxiety
Summer is almost here, which means fireworks season is just around the corner. With fireworks come loud noises, which can be disastrous if your dog suffers from noise anxiety. If your dog suffers from noise anxiety, loud noises – such as fireworks and thunderstorms – can send it into a frenzy. Sadly, many dogs have suffered serious injuries when they've tried to escape loud noises. If your dog suffers from noise anxiety, here are four steps you can take to help alleviate the distress.
Give It Space
If you know the loud noises are about to start, try moving your pet to a safe space. Move your dog to a small room and allow it to find its own personal space. Once your dog finds its space, resist the urge to move it. For instance, if your dog curls up in a corner, allow it to stay there. A tight place can be comforting for a dog who's suffering from noise anxiety. Crates also work well for this purpose. Place a comfy blanket and your dog's favorite toy in a crate. At the first sign of loud noises, move your dog to the crate and leave it there until the noise has subsided.
Turn Up the White Noise
White noise can have a calming effect on a dog with noise anxiety. If you know that your dog is going to act up as soon as the loud noises begin, try turning up the white noise first. Play relaxing music in the background or turn on the vacuum cleaner. You can also place your dog in a bedroom and turn a portable fan on.
Wrap it up Tight
If you have a small dog that can fit in your lap, you might want to try swaddling. Wrap a soft blanket around your pet and hold it tightly until the loud noises have stopped. Larger dogs may also benefit from swaddling, although you probably won't be able to hold them in your lap. Instead, have your dog lay down beside you and tuck the blanket in around it. Place your hand on your pet to provide reassurance.
Get Professional Help
If you've tried everything, but nothing has worked, you should talk to your veterinarian about tranquilizers. Tranquilizers will calm your dog and keep it safe during episodes of loud noise. Prescription medication allows you to relax your dog during fireworks shows and thunderstorms.
Your dog doesn't have to suffer from noise anxiety. Use the tips provided above to help calm your pet.
For more information, contact a clinic like Foothills Animal Hospital.