Fear of intense noises such as thunder and fireworks affects around 40%% of dogs. Sound phobia can cause extreme panic, leading to escapes, self-harm and destruction of the environment.
Why pets are afraid
Dog hearing is 4 times more sensitive than human hearing. Sounds that are loud to us are deafening to them. In addition to noise, changes in atmospheric pressure and static electricity during thunderstorms contribute to discomfort.
Handling Techniques
Create a safe haven: an indoor room, with drawn curtains and ambient music to drown out outside sounds. Compression shirts (thunder shirts) reduce anxiety in many dogs. Do not force the animal to come out of hiding.
Desensitization
Outside of periods of crisis, play recordings of thunder at low volume while offering treats. Gradually increase the volume over weeks. This process will recondition the animal's emotional response.
When to medicate
In severe cases, the veterinarian may prescribe anxiolytics for occasional use on predictable dates (New Year, June festivities). Never medicate on your own — incorrect dosages can be dangerous.
