30/06/2025
We wish you a very happy Independence Day! In observance of Independence day, our office will be closed on Friday, July 4th.
Did you know?
July 5th is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters across the country. Why? Many dogs (and some cats, although not as commonly) experience a fear of loud noises ("noise phobia"). July 4th is often celebrated with fireworks, and sometimes with gunshots. These loud noises trigger a fear response in some dogs, as can thunderstorms.
There are a number of factors that determine a pet’s reaction to certain noises, such as their age, socialization, and experience. Depending on the type of animal you have and the severity of their fear, signs of pet noise phobia may include:
Hiding
Trembling or shaking
Seeking out the owner
Urinating or defecating
Pacing/Panting
Chewing
Digging
Barking or howling
Some dogs become so fearful of the noise that they try to run away from it, including escaping and running as fast as they can away from the noise. This is why our shelters are so busy on July 5th!
How can you calm your dog's fear of loud noises?
Your pet may be comforted by being in a smaller, confined space such as a crate (if they are accustomed to a crate), a bedroom, closet, or bathroom. Play soothing music or turn on the TV for your pet. Human company helps, but try not to over-indulge your pet with sympathy. Give your pet attention and act like everything is normal!
Never Use Punishment
Under no circumstances should punishment be used when you are helping your pet overcome noise or storm phobias, especially if there has been physical damage that occurred while you were away. Punishment only serves to increase the pet’s anxiety and fear. Keeping your pet calm and relaxed is a requisite part of treatment.
Wraps & Shirts
Some dogs respond well to the various capes and wraps available, including a Thundershirt (thundershirt.com).
The Thundershirt is designed to apply gentle pressure to the dog’s torso, resulting in fear reduction by maintaining “swaddling” pressure and applying acupressure.
Pheromone Products
Pheromone products can help dogs with noise and storm anxiety. Adaptil (ceva.us) contains a synthetic analogue of dog appeasing pheromone (DAP), which reportedly helps provide reassurance and comfort to puppies and dogs of all ages. One study showed that desensitization (white noise machine or gentle music) in combination with DAP helped dogs handle their fear of fireworks.
Adaptil for dogs is available in 3 forms:
Diffuser that covers approximately 600 square feet
Collar that (when fitted snugly) constantly diffuses DAP
Spray for use on bedding and other surfaces, but NOT on the dog
Feliway pheromone for cats aids in curbing unwanted cat behaviors such as spraying, scratching, and general fearfulness.
Feliway for cats is available in 3 forms:
Spray for use on bedding and other surfaces (including the carrier) but NOT on the cat
Diffuser that covers approximately 600 square feet
Wipes for use on surfaces, and in cat carrier but NOT on the cat
Medications
Some medications have proven useful in calming the pet during stressful noise events. If you would like to further discuss these options, please give us a call. If your pet normally takes prescription medication for noise phobia and you need a refill, please allow 48 hours advance notice for us to prepare the medication refill for you.
Please let us know if you have any questions. We wish you and your pets a happy and safe 4th of July!
With warm regards,
Dobson Veterinary Hospital
