Getting Dogs to Relax When Hearing Thunder and Fireworks

Thunderstorms and fireworks send chills through many dogs' hearts. They pant, drool, cry, huddle, traumatize themselves or soil indoors, leaving you wondering how to help.

There are options that range from veterinarian-prescribed medications, to natural remedies, and several aspects of behavior modification. Each animal (cats and birds are not immune) and person has to find the right combination. Regardless of your choice, the time to start on a proactive treatment is now; before the fireworks start, and the summer thunderstorms roll in. Their fear is real. Phobias only get worse over time, so figuring out a way to counter their responses is important.

• Prescription medication: If you opt for a medical treatment, ask your veterinarian about anxiolytic medications. They are often used to reduce the level of fear and anxiety. Thunderstorms, fireworks or even travel can become less stressful with alprazolam, diazepam, or clorazepate. They are quick-acting and good to have if the need arises. Current thought suggests staying away from acepromazine, since it sedates the dog, but does not reduce the anxiety.
• Natural remedies in the air: Pheromones synthesized to calm dogs work best indoors, where there is no wind. They can be worn on a collar, sprayed near the animal or in an air freshener-type plug-in. There is nothing to ingest, and no scent for humans. The effectiveness depends on your dog. The results have been reported to range from astounding to no change in behavior desensitization. Veterinary Products Laboratories D.A.P. (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) Collar.
• Natural remedies to take orally: There are several products on the market. In all cases the dosages are very small and can be easily concealed in a treat. Check each product, but many are interchangeable between species. Dog chews containing calming ingredients are also available.

Some sources for natural remedies:www.petshed.com, www.aldaronessences.com/ and www.drsfostersmith.com. You can also stop in at The Mustard Seed or Whole Foods.

Behavorial modification can be accomplished several ways.

• Desensitization: This method takes time and patience, and can be used in conjunction with medication or other methods. It entails playing a recording of a thunderstorm. You start at a low volume for a short period of time, then as the dog becomes accustomed to the noises, you increase the duration and volume. http://www.cafepress.com/dogaudio, www.throughadogsear.com.
• Redirection: The key is not to reward, by petting or reassuring, a scared animal. You need to redirect their attention to a game of fetch, tug of war, a special chew toy or even sit/stay. Once this has been accomplished, you can praise your pup lavishly; give them extra pets, snacks or play some more. This works well in early stages. The upside to this technique is that it works well with desensitization. Play the thunder CD for a few minutes, and play fetch.
• White noise: Although most animals have very keen hearing, it does not mean that they focus only on one sound. Playing soothing music, or turning on the TV a little bit louder than usual sometimes helps. Use this technique especially if a storm is predicted and you will not be home.
• A safe place: Never take your dog to a fireworks display, or leave them outside as the barometric pressure drops as a storm brews. Even indoors, dogs might seek a special place place of safety. If they like their crate, make sure it is accessible and the door is open. A makeshift tent is easy to make. Depending on the size of your dog, drape a blanket over a chair and give them a safe spot.
• Physical: A new product has helped some dogs immensely – it’s called a thunder shirt. Basically, it's snug-fitting shirt/coat that’s to be worn during thunderstorms. The gentle pressure reassures without inhibiting the dog. It is possible to get results to a lesser degree by dressing a dog in their winter coat, or dressing them in a T-shirt with the shirt tail tied around their waist. http://www.thundershirt.com/

There are lots of ways to decrease – if not eliminate – your dog's fears. Be sure you are calm and confident yourself, don’t make a big fuss, and be prepared. It’s Cleveland, and thunderstorms are guaranteed.