Author: Diana L. Guerrero July 4th Noise Phobia ( Fireworks & Pets )
Copyright ©; 2005 Diana L. Guerrero. All rights reserved.
This article may not be reprinted or distributed without written permission from the author.Does your pet cower, quiver, behave frantically or become destructive in response to noise? Behavior problems triggered by fireworks, garbage trucks, and thunderstorms are noise phobias. Pets suffering from phobias need behavior modification. If the holiday or event is right around the corner you�ll find some tips and hints to help you in the short-term.
Many pets respond to noise phobia differently, in addition to the reactions listed above, some critters hide under furniture but all negative responses come from certain triggers. During the Fourth of July it is the noise from holiday fireworks. Pet may become live versions of Velcro--and stick closely to their owners.
Many pet owners want to �comfort� their pet, but although this is done with good intentions, it can actually reinforce the fear and panic. This "training by accident" often escalates pet problems so pet owners should only verbally reassure their pets. Pet owners should avoid cuddling, petting, holding, and trying to physically relieve the stress.
The age of your pet, socialization, experience, and breed can also influence their reactions. Animals with an established history of problems will likely worsen. Elderly animals may get better simply because they lose their hearing.
Animals are fine-tuned for survival and their senses are distinctly more acute than humans. Smells, rumbles and sudden bursts of light can illicit escalated reactions in pets. They are more sensitive to their environment than humans.
There are ways to work through noise phobia exhibited before earthquakes, during thunderstorms and throughout firework displays, but it takes time and preplanning. In the meantime use some quick tips and tools to address the problem behavior, which escalates annually during the Fourth of July holiday.
Emergency tips for July 4th noise phobia in pets:
Pet owners should always check with their veterinarian or behavior specialist before using any drugs or tranquilizers. They should also watch guests--since an open door can provide an opportunity for animals to bolt outside.
- Keep your animals inside during July 4th and for a few days to a week prior to the holiday.
- Make sure you have a tag with current information on your pet during this time.
- If you take your animal outside for toileting or any other activity, make sure they are under physical restraint via a collar and leash.
- Leave your pets safely at home instead of taking them to picnics or other holiday events.
- Play music or turn on a radio station with soothing music to help mask outside noises.
- Buy a plug-in Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) dispenser. This permeates the air with a calming scent and reduces fear and anxiety.
- Keep your pet busy with activities or chew items before the height of noise making occurs.
- Visit your veterinary medical professional and ask for melatonin. This oral neuro-hormone often provides help for sensitive animals. Use with the veterinarian�s dosage recommendation and don�t try to do it yourself.
- Flower remedies work on an energetic level. Five Flower� or Rescue Remedy� mixes may help reduce your pet�s anxiety.
- Create a safe haven. If your animal is habituated to a crate you may want to provide access for security. Other options include the bathroom, laundry room, garage, basement, or any other den area. The room to choose is one where there are no windows to jump through, or where windows can be blocked off and are too high and narrow to access.
- Some animals want to hide and will feel safe in a favorite spot, like under the bed. You can create sleeping bag tunnel or similar option for them.
- Plan a party and play instead of participating in other events. Making new traditions can be fun and helpful for your pet.
- Consider boarding your pet at a professional kennel for the holiday.
Finally, use simple steps to get your pet through the crisis. If your pet has noise phobia problems you should start your behavior modification problem right after this holiday. Don�t delay.
About The Author:
Our critter columnist, Diana L. Guerrero is an animal expert, professional speaker and author. This pet pioneer shares over thirty years of revolutionary techniques and innovative services. She is the author of many books including, �What Animals Can Teach Us about Spirituality� and �Blessing of the Animals.� Guerrero�s distinctive areas of expertise are animal disaster preparedness, animal and pet careers, animal personality styles and animal kingdom etiquette. Readers are invited to subscribe to her FREE monthly electronic newsletter, enroll in her classes, explore wild and domestic animal behavior, or learn more about pet training at:
http://www.arkanimals.com
Brought To You By AnimalsNet
The Animals Only Search Engine
Dogs, Cats, Horses, Breeders, Pets & more
| Home | Site Map |
