How to Help Pets Cope With Loud Noises

Fear of loud noises is a common behavioral disorder in pets; the incidence varies within breeds and among individuals, and can be mild (trembling) or extreme (panic attacks, destructive behavior, running away) - which can result in injury or death.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• First Aid Kits
• Soothing Music
• Veterinarian

1. Be aware that controlling reactions to loud noises may require the help of a veterinarian or trainer using medication or behavioral modification.
2. Desensitize or countercondition your pet through repeated exposure to sounds. Start with a greatly reduced volume, and gradually intensify the sounds over time. This may result in controlling the problem.
3. Invest in nature recordings with sounds of thunder or pounding rain to help your pet get used to these sounds.
4. Keep your pet company if there is potential for exposure to loud noises.
5. Bring your pet inside if loud noises are likely. Do not leave a pet in a run or cage or tied with a rope, chain or cable.
6. When loud noises occur, confine the pet in familiar surroundings that are insulated from sound, are dimly lit and present no opportunity for escape. A basement or a room without windows is ideal.
7. Play soft music or videos, or leave the television on during a loud storm or noisy event. This may calm or distract your pet.
8. Find a suitable boarding facility at especially high-risk times, such as Independence Day.
9. Avoid punishing a pet to suppress a fearful response to loud noises.

Tips & Warnings

• Pets can sense your anxiety, so stay calm. Try not to overreact; your reaction could cause the condition to worsen.
• Tranquilization may be required. Use only drugs developed especially for animals ' not people ' as prescribed by a veterinarian.