Newswise — As you consider plans to take in a fireworks display this coming Independence Day weekend, it should probably go without saying – it’s a bad idea to take the family dog along with you.
Veterinarians at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech remind us loud noises, whether from fireworks, gunshots, or thunderstorms can cause a tremendous amount of stress and anxiety for dogs.
Dr. Mark Freeman, assistant professor of community practice in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences cautions dog owners to be sensitive to their pet’s fear of loud noise.
“It will cause dogs to be very frightened, and with the continuation of noise, it’s sort of an amping-up effect. The more noise they have, the more reactive they become. It just compounds the problem.”
Many dogs will look for a place to hide or a place where they feel more safe and secure. Freeman says “when they are in a situation where they are being bombarded with noises that are causing a tremendous amount of stress for them, they are looking for any source of security.”
Additionally, animal shelters report July 5th as their busiest day of the year for runaway dogs.
For dogs that have phobias with loud noises, behavior modification is the best option for desensitizing the pet. Medical management is an alternative if that’s not possible.
“Medications can help dogs cope with noise, particularly sedatives,” said Freeman. “On an as needed basis, they can help make the dog feel more calm and quiet.”
Pet owners should consult their local veterinarians about the best option for dogs that suffer significant reactions and anxiety to summertime noise.
Our studioVirginia Tech's television and radio studios can broadcast live HD audio and video to networks, news agencies, and affiliates interviewing Virginia Tech faculty, students, and staff. The university does not charge for use of its studios. Video is transmitted by LTN Global Communications and fees may apply. Our namePlease refer to the university as Virginia Tech in news coverage. Our official name is Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, but using the full name is cumbersome. Thus, "Virginia Tech" (without the word university on the end) is preferable. The Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine is a partnership between the land-grant universities of Virginia Tech and the University of Maryland.
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