Storms and fireworks: calming a nervous pet

Originally published 18 September 2023. Disclosure: this post contains some affiliate links that help support Happy's Vet. Clicking on them comes at no additional cost to you, but provides us a small commission. Thank you for your support.

Hello, fellow pet parents! If you've been following Happy's Vet, you know all about my fur babies, Happy and Chewie. Just like many of your beloved pets, they have their own unique ways of dealing with loud noises. Happy tends to seek refuge in the bathroom, while Chewie takes it upon himself to defend the household by barking at the windows.

Noise phobias are a common problem in dogs, affecting up to a third of the canine population. It's not just an issue during the holidays; living near a fireworks store in sunny Florida means we get unexpected pyrotechnic displays just as frequently as we get unpredictable thunderstorms. Let me share some advice on how you can help your furry friend.

Identification is key

Before we discuss coping strategies, it's crucial to ensure your pet is easily identifiable. A panicked dog may find a way to escape, and you want to ensure they can be returned to you as quickly as possible.

Collars with identification should be engraved rather than on a tag that dangles, because those can fall off. A GPS collar is an excellent tool. While collars are essential, they can slip off — that's why microchipping your pet is vital. Don't forget to register the chip when you move. I was shocked to learn that 40% of pets with a microchip are not properly registered. Talk with your veterinarian today about having your pet microchipped.

Prevention

Early conditioning to loud noises can make a world of difference. Start by playing a recording of fireworks at a low volume while giving treats and praise. Once they seem comfortable, you can gradually increase the volume and even add visual elements like flashing lights.

Treatment

If you find yourself with an already phobic dog, don't worry — there are options. One step is talking to your vet about anti-anxiety medication. Some medications can be used during a stressful event and others are used daily.

As tempting as it may be to share your own medication with your pet, don't do it. Not only are the doses likely different, but some drugs may cause scary and even life-threatening reactions. I use herbal medications daily in my practice for a more natural solution as well. You would be amazed at all of the options.

Another solution is behaviour modification, which can be done independently or with the help of an animal behaviourist or trainer. Chewie has benefited from some simple distraction techniques, like his favourite chew toy and being fed. When Happy is anxious, he is not interested in food, so a thunder shirt is in order for him instead.

Management

Sometimes, the best we can do is manage the environment to avoid triggers. Living close to a fireworks store has taught me the importance of this. When those unexpected fireworks start, we keep Happy and Chewie indoors. Chewie gets to play fetch for his dinner, and Happy gets dressed in his thunder shirt and heads to his Zen Palace in the bathroom.

Pro tip: exercise. A tired dog is less likely to be stressed out. When you know there will be noises and potential triggers, spend extra time at the dog park or in the backyard beforehand.

Products that may help

• Wraps and shirts, like the Thundershirt. Totally cute and effective.
• Diffusers and sprays such as Adaptil. Pheromone therapy is a proven therapy and essential in our home, especially during summer storm season and for fireworks. Use a diffuser by their bed, or apply the spray directly on the thunder shirt or anxiety wrap.
• Natural chews and supplements. There are a plethora on the market. With nutraceuticals, not all products are created equal even when they make the same claim or have similar ingredients, so choose carefully. Ask your vet for their favourite brands.
• Rescue Remedy. Flower essences for stressful situations like vet visits, fireworks, and thunderstorms. Made with Bach flowers, these are safe, and many people swear they are very effective. I support my clients using this product because I know it is safe and may help. It certainly will not hurt your pet.
• Calmer Canine, a drug-free solution that uses targeted pulsed electromagnetic field therapy to treat anxiety. This is something I am beyond excited about — another tool to share with my clients for their anxious babies.

If your pet's anxiety is severe, it is worth discussing with a veterinarian rather than managing it alone. Book a visit and we'll talk it through — at home, where your pet is calmest.