We often think that humans are beset by unreasonable phobias but many times our pets also have fears that when left untreated, can cause serious injury to themselves and their surroundings. One such form of dog anxiety is noise phobia - a condition that often manifests itself during storms.
The reasons why animals are terrified of thunderstorms have not been concretely established as yet. Experts say that it is the electric current in the atmosphere, some say its the decline of barometric pressure. Still others say thunderstorms are dark, noise and just plain scary. Whatever it may be, this is a common fear among dogs that have worried many owners.
Dogs and thunderstorms are a combustible tandem. Mild noise phobias in canines show through a display of nervous energy, trembling, and hiding in nooks and corners throughout the duration of the storm. To alleviate this, take the dog to a spot where they are most at ease in. Usually it is an open crate or a bath tub. Condition him to head to this safe place each time he seems afraid and reward him accordingly.
Pets that are severely affected by thunderstorms or loud noises like gunshots, extremely loud engines or fireworks, should be watched very carefully. Many owners verify that their noise phobic pets have not only destroyed furniture and things; but have also badly hurt themselves in the process. Some have clawed through hard wall and dug through the carpets until they were bleeding.
There are two fundamental behavior modification methods employed by experts in treating canine phobias. Desensitization is one. This is done by bringing in the frightening noise very faintly initially; then increasing the decibel level little by little until the dog is unafraid anymore. Always begin softly and when you raise the intensity, keep it below the volume that will alarm the animal.
The other technique to treat dog anxiety is by counter conditioning. You do this by giving your dog something which would normally solicit favorable responses while you increase the source of the fear gradually. For example, if you are able to simulate a thunderstorm, amplify the noise very slightly. As you do this, give your pet his favorite treats. If he still gets agitated, stop. You dont want the dog to associate the treats you give to the phobia he is experiencing.
If the above mentioned behavior modification practices do not work, you have to ask your veterinarian on the best medication you can administer. Preferably, natural or homeopathic treatments should be used like Melatonin and Phosphorous 30C, which have been known to significantly improve noise phobia in canines. Inquire about the dosage in relation to the breed and size of your pet, and follow it carefully.
A common cause of frustration for many pet owners has often been dogs and thunderstorms. Studies are being developed continually to find a safe and thorough cure for this condition. In the meantime, it is prudent to do whatever we know to do to help comfort our pets. Visit the veterinarian regularly for check-ups and any changes in behavior.
The reasons why animals are terrified of thunderstorms have not been concretely established as yet. Experts say that it is the electric current in the atmosphere, some say its the decline of barometric pressure. Still others say thunderstorms are dark, noise and just plain scary. Whatever it may be, this is a common fear among dogs that have worried many owners.
Dogs and thunderstorms are a combustible tandem. Mild noise phobias in canines show through a display of nervous energy, trembling, and hiding in nooks and corners throughout the duration of the storm. To alleviate this, take the dog to a spot where they are most at ease in. Usually it is an open crate or a bath tub. Condition him to head to this safe place each time he seems afraid and reward him accordingly.
Pets that are severely affected by thunderstorms or loud noises like gunshots, extremely loud engines or fireworks, should be watched very carefully. Many owners verify that their noise phobic pets have not only destroyed furniture and things; but have also badly hurt themselves in the process. Some have clawed through hard wall and dug through the carpets until they were bleeding.
There are two fundamental behavior modification methods employed by experts in treating canine phobias. Desensitization is one. This is done by bringing in the frightening noise very faintly initially; then increasing the decibel level little by little until the dog is unafraid anymore. Always begin softly and when you raise the intensity, keep it below the volume that will alarm the animal.
The other technique to treat dog anxiety is by counter conditioning. You do this by giving your dog something which would normally solicit favorable responses while you increase the source of the fear gradually. For example, if you are able to simulate a thunderstorm, amplify the noise very slightly. As you do this, give your pet his favorite treats. If he still gets agitated, stop. You dont want the dog to associate the treats you give to the phobia he is experiencing.
If the above mentioned behavior modification practices do not work, you have to ask your veterinarian on the best medication you can administer. Preferably, natural or homeopathic treatments should be used like Melatonin and Phosphorous 30C, which have been known to significantly improve noise phobia in canines. Inquire about the dosage in relation to the breed and size of your pet, and follow it carefully.
A common cause of frustration for many pet owners has often been dogs and thunderstorms. Studies are being developed continually to find a safe and thorough cure for this condition. In the meantime, it is prudent to do whatever we know to do to help comfort our pets. Visit the veterinarian regularly for check-ups and any changes in behavior.
About the Author:
A number of well-researched articles have been written by dog expert Geraldine Dimarco about dogs and thunderstorms. Learn more about dog anxiety and how to ensure your pet is free from this very real condition when you click on this website today.
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