Most dogs suffer from increased sensitivity to sounds, they are afraid of loud bangs and blows. It is important to remember that dogs have much more sensitive hearing than humans.
A dog's hearing is close to that of a human. However, they perceive louder noises much more acutely.
Humans can hear sounds up to 20,000 hertz. Dogs can hear sounds at a much higher frequency - 47,000 to 65,000 hertz, depending on the breed or type of pet.
It is not surprising that lightning strikes or firecrackers can be very stressful for dogs. However, a storm is not only noise, but also flashes, low air pressure, strong winds, electrical charges in the air. All these factors can lead to a decrease in the dog's comfort, its fear and even a panic attack.
How can we help our dog overcome his fears?
Of course, it is better not to allow them to arise. And early socialization of the puppy is very important here.
If you acclimate your dog to noise early enough, you won't have any problems with thunderstorms or fireworks on New Year's Eve.
Training a puppy should be similar to training an adult dog. Since the main source of stress for a dog is sound, it is necessary to reduce sensitivity to sound. The best way is to find videos of storms or firecrackers on YouTube.
Play these sounds through the speakers at a very low level, barely audible to the dog.
The idea is for the dog to hear the sound but not react to it with fear. With this background music, you can begin a normal game with your dog or a session of simple dog exercises, of course with plenty of treats.
The point is that the dog positively associates the sounds heard in the background. Obedience training also allows the dog to focus on what it can, to induce rational thinking and prevent panic.
Over time, you can gradually increase the volume of thunder or firecrackers. It is better to do it a little slower than too fast. During the listening process, the dog should not react with fear.
Since this is a long-term process, it is best to start reducing storm sensitivity in the winter and reducing New Year's Eve fireworks sensitivity in the summer. It is better to do it a little slower than too fast.
When it comes to thunderstorms, thunder isn't everything. As a thunderstorm approaches, the atmospheric pressure and electrical charges in the air change.
As a result, many dogs develop static electricity, which can cause unpleasant "electric shocks." It is because of the electrified fur that many dogs hide under the bathtub or behind metal pipes in search of grounding.
Helping a dog in such a situation is very simple and does not cost anything. You need to wipe its hair with a damp cloth, and you are done. This simple procedure will significantly improve your dog's well-being during a storm.
Another simple way to minimize stress for your dog is to properly prepare your home before a thunderstorm or on New Year's Eve. Many dogs then hide in the bathroom because of the electrical charges in the air.
The bathroom is usually a small windowless room located in the middle of the apartment. The lack of windows and extra thickness of the walls protects dogs from excessive noise and flashes.
If your dog feels safe in the bathroom during a thunderstorm/New Year's Eve, let him take refuge there. Another "safe hole" for a dog can be a crate. Of course, this solution is only for those dogs that have previously been accustomed to being in a crate and feel safe there.
Anti-anxiety vest
A panic vest is a good way to deal with anxiety in dogs. It works on the concept of “pressure maintenance.” It sounds arcane, but the general idea is that constant pressure on your dog’s body helps calm him down.
Similar therapy is used in humans, for example, those with autism. Anti-anxiety vests for dogs are sold in pet stores for $150-200. Will such a vest help a dog?
You can successfully make such a vest yourself using an elastic bandage. Below are some ideas on how to tie such a bandage.
Tellington Touch
Tellington Touch, a system created in the 1970s by American Linda Tellington-Jones, was initially used to work with horses and in the 1980s it was extended to work with pets.
This system consists of relaxing massage of the dog and work from the ground. However, massage of the hind legs, buttocks and ears is especially recommended for dogs that are afraid of storms and firecrackers.
From time to time, practical classes on the T-Touch massage technique are held in different places in Poland. If your dog has anxiety problems, why not consider training?
Bach Flower Essences
Bach flower essences may be another effective method for combating dog anxiety. This type of aromatherapy was invented by British physician and scientist Edward Bach (1886-1936). It uses drops made from wildflowers.
For dogs that are afraid of storms and impacts, Rock Rose and Mimulu essences are especially recommended.
You can add the liquid to a bowl of water (the usual dose is 4 drops per bowl), rub the dog's gums, or, in the case of a dog that is already panicked and may be dangerous, spray the liquid on the coat.
Preparations
There are also several products on the market that can help anxious dogs. These include diffusers, sprays, collars, and tablets. They contain substances that have a calming effect on animals.
GABA reduces the activity of brain cells responsible for stress, L-tryptophan increases the synthesis of serotonin, L-theanine increases the release of GABA, prevents the binding of the stimulating neurotransmitter to receptors), and B vitamins are necessary for the proper functioning of the brain. In general, they help the body cope with the effects of stress.)
Some owners also give their dogs melatonin, a natural hormone that regulates the body clock. It is not a sedative, but it helps some dogs relax.
If the dog still panics when hearing a pop despite all of the above methods, drug therapy may be considered.
Before giving your dog any medication, consult an experienced veterinarian.
Many of the medications given to dogs during a storm or on New Year's Eve only relax the muscles, but do not calm the mind.
The dog then becomes traumatized by being fully conscious in a defective body and feeling even more vulnerable.
It is worth remembering that no medicine will work immediately, and it is also important to choose the right dose. Therefore, do not experiment on your own.
Previously, we talked about how to help a pet that has lost its owner .
Expert: Julia Tychino
