The Effects of Music on Canine Seizures

Classical music is soothing to dogs.

A few strains of Brahms or Beethoven can do wonders for dogs and is excellent therapy for an animal that experiences canine seizures. Researchers in two separate studies have concluded that the slower, regular tempo of classical music has a pronounced calming effect on dogs.

Stress and Noise

If your dog has a history of epileptic seizures, be mindful of the impact of stress on your pet's vulnerability to sudden shakes and tremors. Anxiety can trigger an epileptic episode. Loud noises, including raucous music or fireworks or verbal outbursts among humans, are upsetting to dogs and can overstimulate them.

Calming Effects of Classical Music

Irish animal behaviorist Dr. Deborah Wells studied the effects of classical music on dogs in her study titled "The Influence of Auditory Stimulation on the Behaviour of Dogs Housed in a Rescue Shelter." Her findings were reinforced by a team of researchers that included a sound specialist, a veterinary neurologist and a chamber ensemble musician. All agreed that the dogs in their studies were visibly relaxed when exposed to the music. One of the researchers, psychoacoustician Joshua Leeds, writes, "The ramifications of this are great. Our canine companions are totally impacted by the sonic landscapes in which we surround them---and ourselves."

Tempo Range

Specifically, the researchers found that 70 percent of dogs in a kenneled environment demonstrated a noticeable calmness when listening to music with 50 to 60 beats per minute. When the canines were observed in their homes, half of them went to sleep in the presence of the same gentle music. The less complex the arrangement, the lower the animals' overall anxiety behaviors.

Comparisons in Human Conditions

Animal behavioral specialists draw parallels between the effects of classical music on humans and on dogs. Hospital patients demonstrate improved levels of breathing and pulse rates as well as a lesser response to pain and anxiety when soothing music is played. Likewise, dogs show less agitation toward stressful circumstances such as being around other dogs or children. In fact, a common reaction among dogs is to lie down when they hear classical music performances.

Reacting to Seizures

Dog owners must continue to seek veterinary attention for their animals' convulsions. While epilepsy is a leading cause of canine seizures, other possible factors include allergies to commercial dog foods and their additives. Trauma and neurological disorders also can be a culprit. Classical music cannot replace standard treatment but can be used as an enhancement.

References

• Through A Dog's Ear: Psychoacoustics Meets Bioacoustics
• Verinary Practice News: A Non-Toxic Solution
• HealthyHappyDogs.com: Seizures in Pets