Storm and Noise Phobias
Noise phobias are quite common, affecting up to 50% of dog
Common triggers
Common triggers include thunder and fireworks, although dogs can develop fear responses to almost any sound. Everyday noises such as lawnmowers, smoke detectors or hair dryers can also cause problems.
Noise phobias often begin within the first few years of life and worsen over time if left unaddressed. Sudden development of noise related fears in an older dog may occur secondary to an unrelated health condition or source of pain and may require further investigation.
Signs of fear in dogs include
shaking
Pacing
Hiding
Clingy behaviour
Lip licking or drooling
Inappropriate toileting
Yawning
Vocalisation
Presence of whale eye (whites of the eyes are exposed)
Escape attempts.
Signs of fear
Successful management of noise phobias often requires combination of strategies.
Possible options include;
Environmental modification during trigger events
Provision of a safe space such as a crate to which the dog has already developed a positive association through previous exposure
Reduction of visual stimuli eg by closing curtains
Masking of outside sounds using background noise such as a loud fan or consistent repetitive noise
Offering distraction with food, games or training
Provision of calming interaction such as stroking and gentle speaking if the dog seeks it out. Dogs who prefer space may be better left to self-settle
Offering of a treat immediately following a loud noise, which help a positive association to form
2. Behaviour Modification
This is key to longer term success and modification of a pet’s fear responses
Desensitisation can be performed to help reduce a pet’s fear response to a specific stimulus. It is performed via gradual exposure to the stimulus (such as a recording of thunderstorm sounds), slowly building in intensity over weeks to months
Counter-conditioning helps to pair the sound with something enjoyable such as play or a high value treat.
3. Calming products and non-prescription medications
These may help in milder cases of anxiety or noise phobias or as an adjunct to other treatments
Adaptil Calm (diffuser, collar and spray options). This is a synthetic version of a pheromone secreted by a mother dog after giving birth, which has calming and reassuring effects in dogs exposed to a variety of stressful situations
Firm-fitting garments (eg ThunderShirt) can help in some pets by exerting sustained pressure to the soft tissues which can be calming. An introductory period as well as periodic use in non-stressful situations may be needed.
Calming supplements such as Zylkene or Serenicare can also be of assistance in some cases.
4. Prescription medications (require a veterinary consultation)
Situational medications are given in the lead up to an anticipated stressful event (such as known scheduled fireworks or an impending thunderstorm)
Long-term medications are sometimes needed in cases of more generalised anxiety, or when a situational medication is not able to be given due to an owner not being home at the correct time or the event being unplanned.