Pets Often Miserable on July 4th
2008-06-24 14:40:55
Fireworks? It's more like fearworks for some pets. Don't wait until your hyperventilating dog is frantically trying to cram herself under the bed to help her out. Similar to fear of thunder, hot-air balloons and construction noise, there are ways to relieve the panic for these wigged-out dogs, but you must start early. Antianxiety medications like clomipramine or fluoxetine can make a big difference, but they are best started before the first bang to prevent the misery. Your veterinarian can add quick-acting alprazolam for as-needed use when the noise is at its worst. A DAP pheromone diffuser (from veterinarians and pet supply retailers) can also help reduce your dog's anxiety. But the tranquilizer acepromazine should be avoided; it can make your dog a zombie while it does nothing to reduce his fear. Phobic dogs on "ace" actually worsen.
There is better living through modern chemistry, but a scared dog also needs his owner's time and patience. You can desensitize your dog to the noises that make him crazy by playing a "Sounds Scary" CD (www. SoundsScary.com) at low volume as you practice basic obedience, tricks, grooming, or high stakes blackjack to occupy his brain. Food toys are another excellent diversion. Gradually increase the volume of the recorded fireworks as your dog adapts. Having fun at the same time could even teach him to enjoy explosions. Take it slow and repeat each baby step hundreds of times.
Some dogs need more help. Studies have shown that the electric charge in the air that precedes lightning storms can be diminished by a foillined "Storm Defender cape." Some storm phobic dogs feel better just wearing a snug fitting T-shirt.
Security is important for a scared dog. Allow her to curl up in the bathtub if it helps her feel better. Avoid reprimands and punishment. And don't comfort her. Telling a panicked dog "it's OK" in soothing tones will actually validate her anxiety. Set the example by exuding confidence. You or your veterinarian are welcome to contact me if you need more help.
Q: I was surprised that your (June 17) answer to the cat owner whose cats were attacked by neighbor dogs did not include the advice to keep their cats inside. Is it really "impossible"? Cats who wander outdoors are not only in danger from cars and dogs and feline leukemia, they kill hundreds of thousands of songbirds a year: By many biologists' estimates, songbirds are at a 10th of their populations 75 years ago. Certainly, the behavior is natural, but is it desirable?
Dr. Nichol: Your point is well taken. Domestic cats are not indigenous to the ecosystem of North America; they were brought here by Western European settlers. They are safer, as is their prey, if they are kept indoors. An indoor Containment Shield from Invisible Fence can help. My job as a practicing veterinarian is to live with reality. Unfortunately, there will always be some outdoor cats.
It was on June 30, 1978 that I launched the Adobe Animal Hospital on the unsuspecting pet owners of Albuquerque. Please join me in congratulating the staff on 30 years of excellent service.
Dr. Jeff Nichol cares for pets with behavior and health disorders at VCA Adobe Animal Hospital in Albuquerque. Contact Dr. Nichol on his Web site www.drjeffnichol.com (click Submit?) or 5920 Fourth St. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107. Unpublished letters may not be answered individually.
(c) 2008 Albuquerque Journal. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.
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