{"id":306,"date":"2025-06-12T13:30:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-12T11:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/?p=306"},"modified":"2025-12-19T14:46:32","modified_gmt":"2025-12-19T13:46:32","slug":"eliminating-firework-and-thunder-phobia-in-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/eliminating-firework-and-thunder-phobia-in-dogs\/","title":{"rendered":"Dogs and fireworks (30+ proven techniques to eliminate noise phobia)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Is your dog afraid of fireworks? How about thunder?<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Keep reading, this blog post contains <strong>everything<\/strong> you need to know. This post is updated and all the links are double-checked about twice a year, last on December 19th, 2025 &#8211; look for the &#8220;revised&#8221; signs in the post to find the latest changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Is your dog <strong>not<\/strong> fearful of fireworks, thunder or other loud noise?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep reading anyway. That may change, and you should be prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/fearful-dogs-fireworks.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"495\" height=\"267\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/fearful-dogs-fireworks.png\" alt=\"fearful dogs fireworks\" class=\"wp-image-307\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/fearful-dogs-fireworks.png 495w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/fearful-dogs-fireworks-300x162.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 495px) 100vw, 495px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">It&#8217;s the combination of different techniques that produce the best effect (Crowell-Davis et al., 2003: 93%). Nobody&#8217;s tried using all the techniques suggested in this blog post, as far as I know.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<p>Fear of fireworks and thunder often lead to similar reactions in dogs, ranging from milder symptoms like cowering, pacing or whining, to house soiling, tearing up the furniture, and even vomiting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Noise phobia could potentially have very serious consequences &#8211; more pets go missing around the fourth of July than any other time of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not all find their way home again. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.prnewswire.com\/news-releases\/new-infographic-more-pets-are-lost-on-july-4th-than-any-other-day-of-the-year-300108062.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Only 14%<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this blog post, you\u2019ll learn:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>1) how to help your anxious dog on the same day of the fireworks or thunderstorm,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>2) how to prepare your poor pooch when there\u2019s more time,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>3) how to prevent your puppy from developing fear of noise, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>4) how to recognize the early signs of anxiety.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/reducing-fear-fireworks.png\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1535\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"550\" height=\"778\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/reducing-fear-fireworks.png\" alt=\"reducing fear fireworks\" class=\"wp-image-1535\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/reducing-fear-fireworks.png 550w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/reducing-fear-fireworks-212x300.png 212w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 550px) 100vw, 550px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>This is a long blog post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A very long blog post. Over 6200 words, actually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s also a blog post that I think many people will return to several times. And so I made it available as an e-book that you could download and save as a reference. You&#8217;ll also get a copy of the infographic poster above!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s a three minute video explaining the framework of this blog post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"dogs and fireworks - reducing fear, stress and anxiety\" width=\"580\" height=\"326\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TFF52aLgQow?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re daunted by the thought of a looooong written blog post, you can also get access to it through a 2-hour long paid webinar that I did together with Grisha Stewart, discussing this information in detail, including lots of visual material and videos of animals being trained. <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/school.grishastewart.com\/courses\/noise?ref=51c955\" target=\"_blank\">Find it here<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>And below you&#8217;ll find the 50-minute free version, where I discuss the major ideas in this blog post with Dr Holly Tett from <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pawsupdogs.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Pawsup Dogs<\/a>, as part of her excellent KIENO conference. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vimeo.com\/958361523\/5b86d8786c?share=copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/videoapi-muybridge.vimeocdn.com\/animated-thumbnails\/image\/b3984579-a0a4-4a29-98e6-518cb2a34da6.gif?ClientID=sulu&amp;Date=1718368528&amp;Signature=4b64dc1a7731bb58ce6dc23a2406a5610056b6d5\" alt=\"Karolina Interview - KIENO 2024 noise phobia\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Click this image to see me talk to Holly Tett and waving my hands<\/em> rather a lot. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Are the dreaded fireworks expected for tonight, or dark clouds at the horizon foreboding&nbsp;a thunder storm? There may not be time to get a vet appointment, but a visit to the pharmacy or grocery store may be doable if you have some time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t panic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Part 1 \u2013 fireworks\/thunder today<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>What to do if there\u2019s no time<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a large number of things you can do on the day of the fireworks \/ thunderstorm to make things easier on your dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Is it starting now, as you\u2019re reading this? OK, here is what you need to do <strong>now<\/strong>, with absolutely no time to spare:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/what-to-do-now-fear-fireworks.png\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1536\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"600\" height=\"398\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/what-to-do-now-fear-fireworks.png\" alt=\"what to do now fear fireworks\" class=\"wp-image-1536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/what-to-do-now-fear-fireworks.png 600w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/what-to-do-now-fear-fireworks-300x199.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Arrange the environment:<\/h4>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t confine the animal, but provide free access to a favourite hiding place. This is probably the single most important thing you can do at this time. Allowing the animal to hide is allowing him to <em>cope<\/em>. Think of this location as the animal&#8217;s <em>Safe Haven<\/em>. He shouldn&#8217;t be confined, but have freedom of movement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Reduce the amount of incoming stimuli (aversive noise \/ light \/ smell) by padding the hideout with pillows or cloth.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/hiding-dog-1.jpg\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1564\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/hiding-dog-1.jpg\" alt=\"hiding dog\" class=\"wp-image-1564\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/hiding-dog-1.jpg 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/hiding-dog-1-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: pexels.com<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>This should be a calm, cozy, inviting place. If light flashes are coming through the door frame, the hideout room shouldn\u2019t be dark but brightly lit instead. If there&#8217;s no hideout place available, at least pull the curtains and turn the lights on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>High-pitched sounds are often directional and absorbed by large objects, so it&#8217;s easy to pinpoint where they&#8217;re coming from, and they can relatively easily be avoided by simply hiding in the right spot. Low frequency sounds, on the other hand, are non-directional and tend to pass through solid objects. This makes it hard to determine where the sound is coming from, and since the animal can\u2019t cope with the noise by moving away (because it passes through solid objects), these low-frequency sounds are typically more stressful. So, if you&#8217;re trying to reduce the incoming noise of a thunder storm, padding with pillows probably <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.soundsensitivedogs.com\/two-inches-sound-proofing-wont-protect-dog-thunder\/\" target=\"_blank\">won&#8217;t absorb the low frequency sounds.<\/a> Going into a basement might be a better choice to filter out those low-pitched sounds.<a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stick your head inside the shelter and knock on the wall. If the sound is muffled, it should be OK, but if there&#8217;s any resonance it may actually make things worse &#8211; again, make sure you don&#8217;t confine the animal but he can choose to use the shelter &#8211; or not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"279\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/12\/crazy-dog-lady.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5775 size-full\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>Consider adding some clothing that the animal&#8217;s favourite person has worn to provide some added smelly comfort. Ideally, stay with the animal (more on what to do below).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The presence of non-fearful, familiar, friendly dogs may also buffer stress.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.thundershirt.com\/thundercap.html\" target=\"_blank\">Calming Caps<\/a> reduce the amount of visual information, which may also be calming (although they are most commonly used to reduce arousal during car rides).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mask incoming sound by running electrical appliances such as a washing machine, or playing music. <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/icalmpet.com\/product\/through-a-dogs-ear-book-plus-starter-cd\/\" target=\"_blank\">Through a Dog&#8217;s Ear<\/a> have prepared CDs that have shown to relax dogs even better than ordinary classical music <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/books.google.se\/books?hl=sv&amp;lr=&amp;id=WMGxvXP3CGIC&amp;oi=fnd&amp;pg=PP1&amp;dq=Leeds+%26+Wagner+(2009).+Through+a+Dog%27s+Ear:+Using+Sound+to+Improve+the+Health+and+Behavior+of+Your+Canine+Companion.+&amp;ots=dFUyMwgFY3&amp;sig=BspMPN6ikNO_wJY10zoi3tPvplY&amp;redir_esc=y#v=onepage&amp;q&amp;f=false\" target=\"_blank\">(Leeds &amp; Wagner 2009)<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/leo-calming-cap-1.jpg\" alt=\"leo calming cap\" class=\"wp-image-1566 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/leo-calming-cap-1.jpg 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/leo-calming-cap-1-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Eileen Andersson discusses other ideas to masking sound (ideally containing low frequencies) in <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.whole-dog-journal.com\/behavior\/noise-canceling-for-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\">this blog post<\/a>. Indeed, she suggests that it&#8217;s the best way to protect dogs from unwanted sounds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.safeandsoundpets.com\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mutt muffs<\/a> are ear covers for dogs that reduce incoming noise \u2013 they are commonly used during noisy airplane rides.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Sunny-mutt-muffs-1.jpg\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1565\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Sunny-mutt-muffs-1.jpg\" alt=\"Sunny mutt muffs\" class=\"wp-image-1565\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Sunny-mutt-muffs-1.jpg 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Sunny-mutt-muffs-1-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sunny wearing mutt muffs.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Your dog shouldn\u2019t be worried by the arrangements per se. For instance, if he\u2019s never worn mutt muffs, that might not be a good idea. These ideas are all meant to calm the animal, not make things worse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ford (yes, the car company) has made a prototype sound-proof dog house, using sound-cancelling techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Ford Noise-Cancelling doghouse, pet care\" width=\"580\" height=\"326\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/iG9GcWkQvGA?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Perhaps, if this ever reaches the open market, it will be out of the financial league for most of us&#8230; but still, it&#8217;s amazing what can be done with technology..!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Distractions:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Do what you can to keep the dog under threshold, meaning that his alarm systems don&#8217;t go off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I can\u2019t emphasize enough the importance of keeping the animal under threshold &#8211; check out <a href=\"http:\/\/blog.smartanimaltraining.com\/2015\/06\/30\/fear-fireworks-neuroplasticity-what-you-should-never-do-when-your-dog-is-afraid\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">this blog post<\/a> by Jennifer Cattet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Doing some activity together has two potential beneficial outcomes: moving about may in and of itself reduce stress (see below), and it is a way to distract the animal.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/simple-dog.png\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1553\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/simple-dog.png\" alt=\"simple dog\" class=\"wp-image-1553\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/simple-dog.png 600w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/simple-dog-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/simple-dog-300x300.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: <a href=\"http:\/\/hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.se\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Allie Brosh<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>One efficient way of doing this can&nbsp;be to distract him with something that usually gets his attention and focus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Doing a training session, playing or giving him a marrow bone, or a problem solving puzzle, may get him so focused so that he tunes out distracting noise.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/problem-solving.png\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1552\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/problem-solving.png\" alt=\"problem solving\" class=\"wp-image-1552\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/problem-solving.png 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/problem-solving-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: <a href=\"www.whydoesmydog.com\">Alyona DelaCoeur<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>This is not simply about distracting the animal so that he doesn&#8217;t perceive the stimuli, it&#8217;s about changing his emotional state, so that even though he might perceive the stimulus, he&#8217;s not as bothered by it. By asking for &#8220;happy&#8221; behaviours, we&#8217;re topping up the <em>optimism bank<\/em>, to use a term that Tom Mitchell &amp; Lauren Langman from Absolute Dogs discuss <a href=\"https:\/\/www.buzzsprout.com\/761645\/9233241-fireworks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, problem solving has been shown to reduce fear &#8211; perhaps because the animal learns to control certain aspects of the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/playing-dog.jpg\" alt=\"playing dog\" class=\"wp-image-1557 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/playing-dog.jpg 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/playing-dog-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>In a study on German shepherds, it was found that dogs that had a lifestyle involving a lot of play were generally less stressed than dogs who played less &#8211; play is very beneficial also outside the noise-phobia context! <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/srep19631\" target=\"_blank\">(Roth et al., 2016)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One alternative approach may be to ask your dog to &#8220;speak&#8221; if he knows a bark cue, as discussed in <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/leecharleskelleysblog.blogspot.com\/2010\/11\/curing-thunder-phobia.html\" target=\"_blank\">this post<\/a> by Lee Charles Kelley.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Owner behaviour:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>It may be difficult to remain calm if you&#8217;re concerned about your animal, but remember that your demeanor will influence your dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>Stay calm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The owner&#8217;s frame of mind is very influential to dogs, and it&#8217;s been shown that anxious dog owners are more prone to have dogs that develop noise phobia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whoever is engaging in the dog should appear content and calm rather than nervous &#8211; using a jolly voice could be risky as the dog may confuse that with fear. Beware of consoling the animal by using a sad voice as this may make things worse.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/meditation-1.png\" alt=\"meditation\" class=\"wp-image-1567 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/meditation-1.png 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/meditation-1-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Punishment: admonitions, painful stimuli such as ear twists, or even a harsh tone of voice may increase fear, especially if the animal is sensitized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Throw the dog a favourite treat immediately after each thunder clap or fireworks noise &#8211; or indeed after any noise! \u2013 he then learns to associate the sounds to something he really likes. Big noises lead to food. Small noises lead to food. High-pitched noises lead to food. Low-pitched noises lead to food. You get the idea. This means that during a thunderstorm or a week of intense fireworks, you should <em>always<\/em> be carrying food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>&nbsp;\u201cDuring and after the treat tossing, visualize your most pleasant memory\/fantasy in great detail. It can be rated G, like thinking about world peace or the taste of chocolate on your tongue, but it doesn\u2019t have to be.\u201d (<a href=\"http:\/\/grishastewart.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Grisha Stewart, author of BAT 2.0.<\/a>)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The technique is illustrated in the video below. Though the environment is full of distractions and a ton of other noises, each gun shot is followed by \u201cyes!\u201d and a treat. Though the dog is somewhat uncomfortable in this situation, the focus is on the owner and he eagerly takes each treat. The alternative could have been much worse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Gun Dog Retrieve Field Trial-Counter Conditioning to gun fire sound-\u767a\u7832\u97f3\u306b\u6163\u308c\u3088\u3046\" width=\"580\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/lLX8kvqWiqo?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If your dog doesn\u2019t take the food, stop feeding and see if you can block out more of the noise \/ lights \/ static \u2013 perhaps try the bathroom? Running the shower may block out some sounds, too. Metal pipes typically supply the sink so they\u2019re potentially a grounding device \u2013 many dogs press against the pipes, perhaps to reduce static electricity. Eileen Anderson <a href=\"http:\/\/eileenanddogs.com\/2016\/06\/08\/getting-dog-grounded\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">warns against taking refuge in a bathroom<\/a>&nbsp;with metal pipes during thunderstorms due to the small but significant risk of lightning strikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Should you pet a frightened dog? Be cautious of petting a frightened dog during a noisy event (especially fireworks). It <strong>may<\/strong> make both of you feel better, but pay attention to the animal. Stop if you see that petting makes things worse (which could occur <a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/dog-owners-to-pet-or-not-to-pet-during-thunderstorms-or-fireworks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">through three different mechanisms<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pheromones and smells:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.adaptil.com\" target=\"_blank\">Adaptil <\/a>(previously called DAP) is a synthetic version of scents emitted by mother dogs to comfort their pups, and may be worn as collars or used as diffusers or sprays. Adaptil-collar-wearing dogs scored only half the anxiety that controls did during thunder claps in one study <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4602264\/pdf\/vetrec-2015-103172.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">(Landsberg et al., 2015)<\/a>. Some of these collars retain their effect for up to three months (<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mdpi.com\/2076-2615\/12\/1\/122\" target=\"_blank\">Nicolas et al., 2022<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/adaptil-1.png\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1613\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/adaptil-1.png\" alt=\"adaptil\" class=\"wp-image-1613\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/adaptil-1.png 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/adaptil-1-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Images: CEVA<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Studies indicate that some smells have relaxing and anxiolytic effects, such as the diffusion of diluted essential oils of lavender or chamomile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>In a study of travel-induced excitement, dogs vocalized and moved less and rested more when exposed to an ambient odor of lavender than if there were no added smells.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In a shelter environment, lavender and chamomile resulted in much the same observation; in contrast, rosemary and peppermint produced the opposite effect <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0168159104001972\" target=\"_blank\">(Graham et al., 2005)<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/lavender-oil.jpg\" alt=\"lavender oil\" class=\"wp-image-1548 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/lavender-oil.jpg 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/lavender-oil-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pressure:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Watch how your dog responds to petting during the actual noise- be careful as petting might either improve things or make it worse: if in doubt, don&#8217;t pet the animal! One option is putting gentle continuous pressure on the animal with your arm, or even leaning against the dog until you feel him relax and exhale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is obviously not a good idea if the animal gets even more frantic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several close-fitting garments that can be used to provide calming deep pressure <a href=\"http:\/\/www.grandin.com\/inc\/squeeze.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">(Grandin, 1992)<\/a>: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.thundershirt.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Thundershirt<\/a> was found to reduce heart rate in dogs suffering from separation anxiety in a recent study, and the manufacturers boast that it works in 80% of dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"In the News - Investigative Report on Thundershirt\" width=\"580\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/pmwgw2actJg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s important to put it on tightly, according to specifications \u2013 if worn loosely, Thundershirt hardly makes a difference. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S1558787814000902\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">(King et al., 2014)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Thundershirt-baseline-effect.png\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1569\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"550\" height=\"310\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Thundershirt-baseline-effect.png\" alt=\"Thundershirt baseline - effect\" class=\"wp-image-1569\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Thundershirt-baseline-effect.png 550w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Thundershirt-baseline-effect-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 550px) 100vw, 550px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Heart rate at baseline and after 15 minutes alone in the kennel. King et al., 2014<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"302\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/anxiety-wrap.png\" alt=\"anxiety wrap\" class=\"wp-image-1540 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/anxiety-wrap.png 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/anxiety-wrap-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/anxiety-wrap-298x300.png 298w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petcetera.co.uk\/anxiety-wrap.html\" target=\"_blank\">The Anxiety wrap<\/a> covers more of the chest and shoulders in larger dogs than the Thundershirt and was found to reduce thunder anxiety score by 47% in dogs, <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/profile\/Nicholas_Dodman\/publication\/257626322_The_effectiveness_of_the_Anxiety_Wrap_in_the_treatment_of_canine_thunderstorm_phobia_An_open-label_trial\/links\/543e98a80cf2eaec07e69e40.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">helping 90% of dogs<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.stormdefender.com\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\">The Storm Defender<\/a> is a cape that doesn&#8217;t apply pressure but has metallic lining that allegedly protects the wearer from static electricity during thunderstorms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a bit unclear at present whether the documented effect of the storm defender&nbsp;cape is due to placebo or not: in the only scientific study carried out to date, the sole method of collecting data was by owner ratings, which vastly increases the risk of placebo confounds. After 4 thunderstorms the dogs wearing the storm defender had reduced their median anxiety score by 63%, and the placebo group by 36%. Though this difference seems large, it was statistically insignificant. <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S016815910900104X\" target=\"_blank\">(Cottam &amp; Dodman, 2009)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/storm-defender.png\" alt=\"storm defender\" class=\"wp-image-1570 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/storm-defender.png 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/storm-defender-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Nerdy comment: <em>Since the sample sizes were small and there was much variability, I suspect that the statistical power of the study (the likelihood of finding a true difference) was small. Repeating the study with a larger sample and adding objective behavioural observation would perhaps shed more light on the usefulness of this device.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don\u2019t have a handy pressure wrap, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.reshareworthy.com\/body-wrap-helps-calm-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">make one yourself.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Demonstration of TTouch Wrap by Sarah Hauser\" width=\"580\" height=\"326\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/N83oXBZy0KM?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>\u201cPlease note-this wrap is only to be left on an animal for up to about 15 minutes at a time for a dog, and only up to a minute or two for a cat, and NEVER should be left on an animal unsupervised. A 2&#8243; ace bandage is good for a small dog, and a 3&#8243; bandage is good for a bigger dog. This is a demo of a TTouch wrap, one of the TTouch tools which is extremely useful especially for frightened or shy animals. It is also good to give general body awareness for animals who may have limited body awareness in some parts of their body.\u201d (<a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/sarahsuricat.blogspot.se\/\" target=\"_blank\">Sarah Houser<\/a>)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>A recent Case Series of 23 dogs explored using <strong>acupuncture <\/strong>combined with conventional effective treatments (SD\/CC and alprazolam, discussed below) and found it helped 77% of the dogs over a 4-month period &#8211; an estimated improvement of about 50% compared to conventional treatment. As the authors state, future randomized controlled studies are needed to validate these preliminary findings (<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/search.ebscohost.com\/login.aspx?direct=true&amp;profile=ehost&amp;scope=site&amp;authtype=crawler&amp;jrnl=19457677&amp;AN=156944813&amp;h=AeZ4plJZVjRgebSZBazw4jVGnazP9wiWJQApP2hqR9dlczZSGby5kN3ron5A%2FzBD5EEAk%2FhJIL6sqz%2BsujgZZA%3D%3D&amp;crl=c\" target=\"_blank\">McDowell &amp; Shiau, 2022<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exercise and massage:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If possible, take a long walk with your dog before the event to drain some energy. Also, exercise leads to higher levels of serotonin in the brain, which decreases anxiety and improves coping with stress <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/2678895\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">(Chaouloff, 1989)<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure that the dog can relieve himself as late as you dare before the event. If it&#8217;s already started, don&#8217;t inadvertently &#8211; or intentionally! &#8211; bring your dog outside into a thunderstorm or firework event. Keep him on a leash for this final outing, just to be safe. Ideally, he should know how to respond to a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.preventivevet.com\/dogs\/four-easy-steps-to-teach-your-dog-to-go-potty-on-cue\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">toileting cue.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re familiar with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ttouch.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Tellington TTouch<\/a>, it may be a good idea to practice it. If you&#8217;re not familiar with it, don&#8217;t fret. Body contact releases feel-good-chemicals such as oxytocin and could calm both the dog and the owner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Calming a Dog Using TTouch Ear Work - Firework Fright and Sound Sensitivity\" width=\"580\" height=\"326\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/BUSDe-KFTwk?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>However, be careful with petting during the actual noise if the dog is very stressed, as <a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/dog-owners-to-pet-or-not-to-pet-during-thunderstorms-or-fireworks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">this may inadvertently make things worse<\/a>: if you&#8217;re unsure it is recommended that petting is either done before the noise starts to relax the dog, or if the dog isn&#8217;t showing any signs of fear (including freezing, panting or being hyper-vigilant).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Diet and medication (available without veterinary consultation):<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Certain types of diets contain tryptophan, which is a precursor to serotonin in the brain and may have a calming effect on anxious dogs. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.royalcanin.com\/us\/dogs\/products\/vet-products\/calm-small-dog-dry-dog-food\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Calm Canine diet<\/a> has been found to reduce anxiety-related behaviour in dogs and increase their ability to cope with stress. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.journalvetbehavior.com\/article\/S1558-7878(11)00095-5\/abstract\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">(Kato et al., 2012)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/placebo-calmex.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"290\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/placebo-calmex-300x290.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7676\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/placebo-calmex-300x290.png 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/placebo-calmex-1024x988.png 1024w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/placebo-calmex-768x741.png 768w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/placebo-calmex-1536x1482.png 1536w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/placebo-calmex.png 1978w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study of 52 dogs, the nutraceutical CALMEX\u00ae was shown to reduce stress-related responses to thunderstorms and fireworks with almost 60%. CALMEX\u00ae contains 2 amino acids, a plant extract and numerous B-vitamins and takes effect within 30-60 minutes. (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S0168159121002033?\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Eaton et al., 2021<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.adaptil.com\/uk\/Adaptil\/Adaptil-Tablets\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Adaptil tablets<\/a> have been shown to reduce fireworks&#8217; fear scores in dogs by 50% over a 7-day period &#8211; they take effect in two hours. (Giussani et al., 2014)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/07\/rescue-remedy-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6436 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/07\/rescue-remedy-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/07\/rescue-remedy-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/07\/rescue-remedy-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/07\/rescue-remedy-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/07\/rescue-remedy-1536x1536.png 1536w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/07\/rescue-remedy-100x100.png 100w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/07\/rescue-remedy.png 1570w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>The Bach&nbsp;<a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.bachflower.com\/rescue-remedy-information\/\" target=\"_blank\">Rescue Remedy<\/a> is a herbal tincture applied to the ears or added to the drinking water. Studies in people have shown that people with certain temperaments may be relieved of anxiety by the human version of this remedy (Yang, 2012).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In dogs, it is reported to take effect within an hour of administration &#8211; but no scientific study has been done, apparently.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Non-psychoactive cannabinoids (CBD) may <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2789283\/\" target=\"_blank\">reduce anxiety in low doses<\/a>,&nbsp;and there are dog bisquits containing these substances, such as <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/treatibles.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Treatibles<\/a>&nbsp;or <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/canna-pet.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Canna-pet<\/a>. The manufacturers of Treatibles claim that they take effect within five minutes to an hour, and <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/hempture.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/AHVMA-2016-V42-Hemp-Article.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">83% of dog owners<\/a> claim Canna-pet helps with anxiety (but keep reading to see the outcome of scientific studies related to noise in particular).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, in the veterinary community there is a concern about the disconnect between scientific evidence and public opinion and perception on the topic of cannabinoid pet treats, and the risk of impure products containing THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, which is toxic to dogs. The essential challenge is that the effects are observational and uncontrolled, and steeped in optimism by enthusiastic pet owners &#8211; and recent evidence suggests that there may be &#8220;disturbing changes in a key liver function enzyme&#8221; among other effects (<a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/profile\/Helen_Prinold2\/publication\/335377881_Using_Cannabis_and_Cannabidiol_CBD_Oil_in_Dog_Training_and_Behavior_Work\/links\/5dbcf523299bf1a47b0a4eb0\/Using-Cannabis-and-Cannabidiol-CBD-Oil-in-Dog-Training-and-Behavior-Work.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Prinold, 2019<\/a>). So, caution and veterinary consultation is warranted while we find out more on this topic. Indeed, a 2020 blinded study found no support for any fear-reducing effect of cannabidiol (CBD) on noise phobia in dogs. (<a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fvets.2020.569565\/full?fbclid=IwAR3v2-wtTKAVOdJvyULaf9NIWchfFNv9ElKqAOu693by-Mje_m8x57LWSmo\" target=\"_blank\">Morris et al., 2020<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Melatonin is another fast-acting choice but that should be used with vet consultations &#8211; for one, it might interfere with female dog&#8217;s reproductive cycles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p><em>These steps comprise the acute interventions that may be implemented only hours before a thunderstorm or fireworks.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of these tips are included in <a href=\"https:\/\/susangarrettdogagility.com\/2018\/07\/dogs-fireworks-fear\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Susan Garrett&#8217;s short film<\/a>, below &#8211; you can see them in action! Note that she says to try a combination of different approaches, but<em> don&#8217;t overwhelm your dog by trying them all out at once<\/em> &#8211; let the dog&#8217;s behaviour guide you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"3 Strategies for Detonating Your Dogs Fireworks Fear\" width=\"580\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/DpMI4KRiJPI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p><em>If your dog panics when exposed to sharp noises, he is suffering badly and being exposed to neurocytotoxic damage, so he will thank you for taking steps to intervene.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Part 2 \u2013 planning \/ training stages<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Animal perception differs from ours, so it could be that our poor pooches have a completely different experience than we do. For instance, they may sense the electrical discharges in the air during thunderstorms, changes in barometric pressure or smells associated with fireworks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For this reason, it\u2019s difficult to address some of the issues that animals may have with thunder\/fireworks, and treatment success is not guaranteed. It is most difficult to help animals that have had established fears for years and if those fears have generalized to multiple situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, work preemptively and assume that things will get worse, because they likely will &#8211; unless countermeasures are taken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Off-season \u2013&nbsp;don\u2019t waste it!<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/off-season-training-dog-fireworks.png\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1558\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-full wp-image-1558 aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/off-season-training-dog-fireworks.png\" alt=\"off-season training dog fireworks\" width=\"550\" height=\"242\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/off-season-training-dog-fireworks.png 550w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/off-season-training-dog-fireworks-300x132.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 550px) 100vw, 550px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maybe you\u2019re not reading this post in the early morning of&nbsp;New Year\u2019s Eve, Independence Day or Guy Fawke\u2019s Day? Maybe there\u2019s no fireworks or thunderstorm forecasted for the next couple of months?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lucky you! In that case, you actually have time to prepare and train your pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And here is where things get difficult. Despite the best intentions, people tend not to follow through when embarking on teaching the animal what she needs to know to stay calm during the next storm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What to do?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First off, check with your vet that the noise-sensitivity problem isn&#8217;t pain-related or caused by other medical issues, such as gastrointestinal problems or cognitive dysfunction &#8211; they&#8217;ve all shown to be associated with noise aversion in dogs (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fvets.2018.00017\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fagundes et al., 2018<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then it&#8217;s time for some training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tell your friends what you\u2019re planning \u2013 that gives accountability!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Tell me \u2013 and the other readers of this blog!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The power of placebo<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>You may have wondered why I include a whole list of scholarly references.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Or maybe not, it\u2019s at the end and we\u2019re only half way there&#8230; Well, most of them are included as links too. \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s two reasons, actually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One, I&#8217;m showing you that my recommendations are backed up by solid, placebo-controlled data &#8211; or when such are lacking I try to be transparent. For most people, that increases the credibility of the recommendation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Two, I&#8217;m trying to induce the confidence involved in the placebo effect. In other words, by making my recommendations more credible, you will have a firmer belief in them. This, in turn, will influence your behaviour. You&#8217;ll strap on the Anxiety wrap fully convinced that it will work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It might. After all, it does in most dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But importantly: you will think that it will do wonders. And so, you will act differently than if you suspect it&#8217;s going to be yet another failure. You&#8217;ll likely be less nervous yourself &#8211; and guess who will pick up on THAT?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words: the combination of a scientifically proven product and a confident owner is what has the highest chance of being successful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This detour brings us to the next topic:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Owner behaviour (revisited)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>This is the easy one, but perhaps also the most difficult. You see, despite the best intentions, people often don\u2019t follow through to the not-so-bitter end. They give up. Efforts trickle down to nothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, since this is so important, what can you do to ensure crossing the finish line?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s actually some research on what characterizes people that have the willpower to follow through.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Focus on one thing. Rather than redecorating your house, losing weight and writing a novel in your spare time, focus on this one task: helping your dog overcome fear of loud noises.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create habits. Instead of thinking \u201cI\u2019m sure going to help my poor pooch\u201d, plan to spend five minutes after every breakfast training.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be specific. Plan what you\u2019ll do. Then stick to the plan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Go public. Tell others what you\u2019re doing. Tell <em>me<\/em> what you\u2019re doing! \ud83d\ude42 I\u2019ll offer encouragement, and so will others.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Accountable.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"279\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Accountable.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1537\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>You get the idea. Take a moment to think about this and commit to that you\u2019re going to be one of the people who see it through.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your dog is fearful of loud noises, it will very likely get worse if you don\u2019t act, as only 4% recover without intervention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, be prepared that you might not feel all that successful. Most animals improve with training, so they\u2019ll hide rather than run amok, but many won\u2019t be all that happy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might have to still rely on a stock of sedatives to help your dog through the noisy events, and continue using many of the tips on this post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember that if you do nothing, things will get worse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>With training, expect most improvement to occur within one month.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Learning<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The training that you\u2019ll be doing involves learning for the dog. Think of it as re-wiring your dog\u2019s brain. You want loud noises to become neutral or even nice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/systematic-desensitization-essential-to-reducing-fear\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Systematic Desensitization (SD)<\/a> involves exposing the animal to the fearful stimulus at gradually increasing volume, playing recordings of the sound that is disturbing to your dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attention to detail here can be the difference between success and failure:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The stimulus that you use should be one that the animal fears, not any random loud noise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The exposure, however, should be at such a low level that you<em> see no fear reaction<\/em> (we refer to this as below threshold). The animal should initially notice the stimulus but not respond fearfully to it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Not only should the animal not respond, she should be relaxed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Play the sounds frequently rather than long durations: it\u2019s more efficient to do 10 minutes 5 times a week than 50 minutes once.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don\u2019t progress to the next level (increase the volume of the stimulus sound) until the animal ignores it at the present level.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vary the origin of the sound, if you have a surround sound system, use it. The scary sounds typically come from the windows, so if possible let the training sounds come from there, too.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Combine SD with CC (learn what that is&nbsp; below!) to advance more quickly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some free <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=H7FANXaanG4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">recordings <\/a>that you could use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Stilwell-noise-phobia-series.png\" alt=\"Stilwell noise phobia series\" class=\"wp-image-1554 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Stilwell-noise-phobia-series.png 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/Stilwell-noise-phobia-series-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>There are also commercially available recordings of thunder and fireworks. In the <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/icalmpet.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Canine Noise Phobia series<\/a> developed in collaboration with Victoria Stilwell, those sounds are masked by psychoacoustic music that has been <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Through-Dogs-Ear-Behavior-Companion\/dp\/1591798116\" target=\"_blank\">especially designed<\/a> to be very relaxing to dogs.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Also, you could make your own recordings &#8211; custom made! Be mindful of sensitization, though &#8211; the animal becoming more rather than less scared. Eileen Anderson <a href=\"https:\/\/eileenanddogs.com\/blog\/2025\/06\/08\/make-a-custom-recording-for-your-thunder-phobic-dog\/#respon\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">discusses this option here.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your animal is likely responding to a range of different stimuli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thunder is complex since it involves changes in barometer pressure, the smell of ozone, electrostatic charges, lightning and thunder, which all might be perceived and feared by the dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>The only variables that you can reasonably try to desensitize are the last two. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you do that successfully you have eliminated some triggers and reduced the trigger stacking that otherwise occurs, so expect improvement!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/one-of-the-5-most-important-words-in-animal-training-counterconditioning\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Counterconditioning (CC) is about re-learning associations.<\/a> Rather than being frightening, we want those flashes of light and sharp noises to predict wonderful things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find something that is irresistible to your animal, such as some favourite treat, toy or scratching their sweet spots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consistently give them access to the favourite thing immediately after each exposure to the aversive stimulus. \u201cBang! \u2013 is that chicken liver?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You get the idea. Beware, though, that it&#8217;s difficult to perform correctly if you haven&#8217;t tried this procedure before, and you risk scaring your dog even further. <a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/cc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Check out this link to avoid those problems<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/the-golden-combination-sdcc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Combine with SD (above) for maximum effect<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>I\u2019m a fan of empowering animals, giving them more control and choices in their lives. For instance, Grisha Stewart describes how she trains her dogs to <em>ask her<\/em> for the sound, using a <a href=\"http:\/\/grishastewart.com\/sound-desensitization-fireworks-thunder\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">\u201cMore Please\u201d<\/a> signal.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S155878782030037X#\" target=\"_blank\">In a recent study,<\/a> it was shown that Conditioned Relaxation (CR) was on par with counter conditioning in reducing noise phobia (69% versus 70% of cases). Check out the procedure &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/pawsandreward.com\/episode34\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">right here, for instance<\/a>. In short, you teach the dog to associate a word, a smell and a touch with relaxed emotional states, both through a passive and an active procedure, in the absence of fear triggers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One study found that dogs that learned to problem solve grew less frightened in other situations <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/302407938_Problem-solving-games-as-a-tool-to-reduce-fear-in-dogs-preliminary-results_2013_Journal-of-Veterinary-Behavior-Clinical-Applications-and-Research\" target=\"_blank\">(Zilocki et al., 2016)<\/a>.&nbsp;This hasn\u2019t been tested with noise phobias but I wouldn\u2019t be surprised if there is a correlation between lack-of-control and phobias in general\u2026!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Putting the dog&nbsp;in a playful\/hunting state of mind may be another approach &#8211; for instance by repeatedly playing boisterous games with a a paper bag, as suggested in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.swairedalerescue.org\/links-and-articles\/the-paper-bag-game\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">this blog post<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Medication (prescriptions \/&nbsp;long-term)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Given the difficulties in targeting some of the elements that may set off fear, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/10822861_Use_of_clomipramine_alprazolam_and_behavior_modification_for_treatment_of_storm_phobia_in_dogs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">medication is often part of the solution<\/a> (together with behaviour modification, described above) to reduce or eliminate noise phobias. A visit to the vet is therefore part of the long-term solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Two types may be considered: <a href=\"http:\/\/vetsci.co.uk\/2011\/09\/27\/dealing-with-canine-anxiety-and-phobias\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">quick-acting drugs and long-term medication.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick acting drugs.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>There are sedatives (benzodiazepines) with amnesic properties that you give a few hours before the event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, your dog will<em> get drowsy and not remember anything from the noisy episode.<\/em> The amnesic effects will reduce the risk of regression in your training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Side effects may be vomiting, and drugs should be given before the animal shows any signs of fear else it may have opposite effects (worsening fears). These are prescription drugs, and you should consult your vet to ensure it&#8217;s a good choice for your pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Acepromazine has been widely prescribed, but has dissociative effects and also increases sound sensitivity: thus, it does <em>more harm than good<\/em> and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.drmartybecker.com\/fear-free\/2-things-pets-firework-fears\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">should be avoided<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.zoetisus.com\/products\/petcare\/sileo\" target=\"_blank\">Sileo is a new prescription drug<\/a> (May 2016) tested specifically on dogs, that works rapidly but wears off within hours \u2014 like by the time a thunderstorm or fireworks display is over. Also, it doesn&#8217;t give any sedative side effects. It\u2019s a gel that can be applied between the dog&#8217;s cheek and gum by the owner at the first sign of anxiety or at the first loud noise, and then reapplied at two hour intervals if necessary. Note that this product is so new it hasn\u2019t been tested with young or breeding dogs. Sileo, or Dexmedetomidine oromucosal gel, was found to be <a href=\"https:\/\/bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1136\/vr.104045\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">effective or very effective<\/a> in 72% of dogs (compared to 37% of dogs getting placebo).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wear gloves at administration, as shown in this film.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"SILEO Administration - When Noise Hurts\" width=\"580\" height=\"326\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/lXHTmKYMRdc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Beware of the risk of overdosing Sileo &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dvm360.com\/view\/fda-warns-of-possible-accidental-overdose-with-sileo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">check out this warning<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Long-term mood changers.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Harmonease Chewable tablets are non-prescriptive botanical extracts that have been shown to reduce fear of thunder in 60% of dogs. <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.journalvetbehavior.com\/article\/S1558-7878(11)00094-3\/abstract\" target=\"_blank\">(DePorter et al., 2012)<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; this product has lately been discontinued and replaced by <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/hsbvet.com\/zentrol-chewable-tabs-60btl.html\" target=\"_blank\">Zentrol Chewable tablets<\/a>, including novel ingredients.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The Quetin supplement containing tryptophan, valerian and passiflora, was shown to reduce behavioural and physiological correlates of fear associated with New Year&#8217;s eve fireworks with up to a 41% improvement in <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mdpi.com\/2076-2615\/14\/7\/1025\" target=\"_blank\">this randomized, double-blinded and placebo-controlled study. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another nutritional supplement, <a href=\"https:\/\/us.virbac.com\/anxitane\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Anxitane,<\/a> containing the amino acid L-theanine, has been shown to decrease anxiety scores during thunderstorms with prolonged use. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/275281204_An_open-label_prospective_study_of_the_use_of_L-theanine_Anxitane_in_storm-sensitive_client-owned_dogs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">(Pike et al., 2015)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your vet will likely give you an antidepressant, such as an <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Selective_serotonin_reuptake_inhibitor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SSRI <\/a>or <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tricyclic_antidepressant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">TCA<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p><em>There are a large number of different approaches to dealing with noise phobia \u2013 find the one that works for you!<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Be observant of what works for your dog. Keep a log of what strategies you&#8217;ve tried and the extent to which it worked! That&#8217;s especially helpful if you&#8217;re consulting with a veterinarian or behaviour consultant &#8211; it will help them determine the best plan for action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p><em>You\u2019ll likely need to use a combination of long term-mood changers, quick acting sedatives, SD\/CC and arrangement of the environment to handle the most difficult cases.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Part 3: Prevention \u2013&nbsp;don\u2019t wait..!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>So far, we\u2019ve addressed the fearful dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Did you just get a new puppy? Is your young dog unafraid of sudden noises, thunder or fireworks? Congratulations!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But wait, if at least 20% of dogs develop fear of noises (and that\u2019s the lowest estimate I\u2019ve seen), doesn\u2019t that mean that the new adorable puppy actually might develop fear of noises after the first exposure?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, that\u2019s it.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/preventing-noise-phobia.png\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1559\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"550\" height=\"289\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/preventing-noise-phobia.png\" alt=\"preventing noise phobia\" class=\"wp-image-1559\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/preventing-noise-phobia.png 550w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/preventing-noise-phobia-300x158.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 550px) 100vw, 550px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>So, if your puppy is unafraid right now \u2013 let\u2019s <em>keep it that way!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prevention is the most important thing you can do for your dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might think that if your dog was unaffected by noise through the first year, including hunting season, thunderstorms and fireworks, he will now be safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m sorry to be the one to break it to you, but\u2026 that\u2019s not true, unfortunately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More than half the fearful dogs develop fear of loud noises after celebrating their first birthday. For about 1\/3 of animals, the onset is gradual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your adult dog suddenly develops noise phobia, have a vet look at him to rule out pain issues &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fvets.2018.00017\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">pain could likely exacerbate the fear.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And to make things worse, dogs with storm or noise phobia may be more at risk of developing separation anxiety later.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>There are <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0168159115002233\" target=\"_blank\">breed differences<\/a> in how susceptible dogs are to developing noise phobia \u2013 and there\u2019s also a bigger risk for neutered dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dogs are also <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S0168159123003118?\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">more fearful of thunder when their owners are fearful of it<\/a>, suggesting that it\u2019s important to work on one\u2019s own phobias.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>don\u2019t flood the animal by exposing it to noise and hoping it will habituate,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>use SD\/CC and conditioned relaxation, as suggested above<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>when you&#8217;re expecting noise, use all the other tricks in the bag to set up for success. Don&#8217;t wait until your dog starts panting in preparing a cozy hiding place.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Here Debbie Martin illustrates how she creates positive associations with a <em>safe place<\/em> that can help the animal learn to self-soothe in a noisy environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/308935325?h=92980465b9&amp;dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963\" width=\"580\" height=\"326\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Credit to Debbie Martin, Veterinary Technician Specialist in Behavior, Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner with TEAM Education in Animal Behavior.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>One way to work preventatively is to use a noise box, here demonstrated by Julie Heyes. This process, in my mind, helps the animal build resilience through learning to overcome small challenges. Note how she avoids overwhelm and flooding by carefully observing the dog and adjusting the difficulty level, and being careful not to add more objects when the animal is in the box. We don\u2019t want to induce conflict, we want to present an interesting challenge from which the dog can grow those resilience muscles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How To Play The Noise Box | DOG-HAPPY TEAMMATES\" width=\"580\" height=\"326\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Cq8uwYHhZzg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit to Julie Heyes from <a href=\"https:\/\/dog-happy.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dog-Happy<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Data indicates that training puppies or non-fearful adults to associate the noise with positive stimuli is <strong>highly effective<\/strong> in preventing later development of firework fears <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/31490926\/\" target=\"_blank\">(Riemer, 2019)<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Explaining to the animal what\u2019s going on might also be helpful. One of my students reported that she had started saying \u201cnoise\u201d just before using things like the coffee grinder, the vacuum cleaner or the treadmill. That makes the loud noises not only more predictable, but over time the animal also learns that when the person says \u201cnoise\u201d (or whatever word you\u2019re using), something noisy will happen and <em>everything is going to be alright.<\/em> My student had also incorporated elements of counterconditioning as well as a start button procedure into her training, and she sent me an enthusiastic email (this is indeed a cat, but the same principle would certainly apply for dogs):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cSo tonight was the first time she really got tested when just outside my home there were loud fireworks for over two minutes. She was startled at first, walked to another room (a milder reaction than usual I must say), and as soon as I said \u2018noise\u2019 she came walking back to me with a happy tail and looking at me like she does when training saying \u2018where\u2019s my snack?\u2019. I was prepared and had snacks within reach, so I could quickly deliver while the fireworks were still going on. She just kept giving me eye contact and wasn\u2019t paying attention to or fearful of the loud fireworks. Such a joy to see training paying off!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p><em>An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure: if you do the right thing now, fireworks or thunder could be a breeze for the puppy later.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"101\" height=\"50\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2017\/10\/revised-e1529772075526.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>More resources on prevention \/ training dogs to reduce noise phobia: <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/eileenanddogs.com\/6-ways-to-prepare-your-dog-for-fireworks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Six ways to prepare your dog for fireworks<\/a>&#8211;&nbsp; Eileen Andersson<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.drmartybecker.com\/fear-free\/2-things-pets-firework-fears\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Don\u2019t \u201cace\u201d the fear. Why acepromazine may make your dog&#8217;s fireworks fear wors<\/a>e &#8211; Marty Becker.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/blog.smartanimaltraining.com\/2015\/06\/30\/fear-fireworks-neuroplasticity-what-you-should-never-do-when-your-dog-is-afraid\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Fear, fireworks and neuroplasticity \u2013 what you should never do when your dog is afraid<\/a> -Jennifer Cattet.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/suzanneclothier.com\/article\/3-ps-dog-need-medication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">The 3 P&#8217;s &#8211; does your dog need medication?<\/a> &#8211; Susanne Clothier<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=rwQlrqmnNF0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How to train your dog not to be scared<\/a> &#8211; Zac George<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.patriciamcconnell.com\/theotherendoftheleash\/dogs-thunder-and-fireworks-update\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Thunder and fireworks &#8211; an update<\/a> &#8211; Patricia McConnell<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.clickertraining.com\/node\/3563\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Summer sounds \u2013 how to help your dog through scary noises<\/a> &#8211; Karen Pryor Clicker Training.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/positively.com\/victorias-blog\/dealing-with-fireworks-anxiety\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Dealing with fireworks anxiety<\/a> &#8211; Victoria Stilwell<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/raisingyourpetsnaturally.com\/preventing-thunder-phobia-in-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\">Preventing thunder phobia in dogs<\/a> &#8211; Tonya Wilhelm <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdpi.com\/2076-2615\/13\/23\/3664\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Therapy and Prevention of Noise Fears in Dogs\u2014A Review of the Current Evidence for Practitioners<\/a> &#8211; Stephanie Riemer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Part 4: Recognizing early signs of fear.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Look out for these indicators:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>shaking,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>dilated pupils,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ears back,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>tucked tail,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>salivating,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>panting,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>attention seeking,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>hiding,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>urinating,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>defecating, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>running away<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of these signs, and others, are shown in this film from the fabulous Sophia Yin. See if you can identify the signs of fear &#8211; run the&nbsp;clip twice, first silently, and then listen to Sophia herself commenting and pointing out these subtle fear indicators (with permission, <a class=\"\" href=\"http:\/\/drsophiayin.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">drsophiayin.com<\/a> \/&nbsp;CattleDog&nbsp;Publishing)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/657438930?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Herding dogs and herding crossbreeds are <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/11450831\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">more at risk of developing noise aversion<\/a>, and females are more prone to phobias than males.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>Intriguingly, there is a study showing that paw preference (an indirect measure of lateralization in the brain) correlates with noise phobia. <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/6894338_Relationship_between_paw_preference_strength_and_noise_phobia_in_Canis_familiaris\" target=\"_blank\">(Branson &amp; Rogers, 2006)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Try putting a toy stuffed with goodies in front of your dog and watch which paw he uses to interact with it. Spend about half an hour looking at this, and jot down whether he\u2019s using the left or the right paw.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"http:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/paw-preference.jpg.png\" alt=\"paw preference.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-1551 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/paw-preference.jpg.png 300w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/12\/paw-preference.jpg-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>If he\u2019s using predominantly the left or the right, noise reactivity scores should be reasonably low. If he\u2019s alternating between paws, however, reactivity scores could be about 3 times as high as if he\u2019s a leftie or a rightie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to that&nbsp;study, dogs without paw preferences showed about half of the symptoms above when exposed to noise: In other words, warning bells should go off <em>if your puppy doesn\u2019t show paw preference.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dogs with paw preferences, on the other hand, showed on average only two of the symptoms in response to noise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, less risky it would seem, but I would encourage working with your animal even if it\u2019s not in any of these risk groups, just to be safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For most dogs, noise aversion occurs in one-trial learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For some, it develops gradually, so that\u2019s why I suggest you don\u2019t ignore if your dog is only showing a few of the behaviours listed above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, if your dog develops noise aversion (and actually up to 50% of dog owners say their dogs are \u201cscared of some noises\u201d), there is an increased risk of developing separation anxiety. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/23142303_Canine_Anxieties_and_Phobias_An_Update_on_Separation_Anxiety_and_Noise_Aversions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">(Sherman &amp; Mills, 2008)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p><em>There&#8217;s simply less time, effort and suffering involved in prevention than trying to fix things once your dog has developed noise phobia and it has generalized into separation anxiety&#8230; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Prevention is key. Learn to recognize the early signs of fear in your dog, and you should be able to live through the next thunderstorm or fireworks!<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>I hope you find this information useful. Perhaps you know someone else whose dog would be helped by this info?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If so, please share this blog post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Did I forget anything, or should I update the info? Do you disagree with any of these recommendations? Which has worked best for you? Please let us&nbsp;know in the comment&#8217;s section!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>***<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/e-book-keys\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"527\" height=\"716\" src=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/12\/Free-ebook-keys-training.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5021\" srcset=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/12\/Free-ebook-keys-training.png 527w, https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/12\/Free-ebook-keys-training-221x300.png 221w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 527px) 100vw, 527px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sidenote: Curious about animal training? Check out the short, juicy and <a href=\"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/e-book-keys\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">FREE e-book<\/a> containing some of the insights I wish someone had told me early on!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\">References.<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>Branson &amp; Rogers (2006). Relationship between paw preference strength and noise phobia in Canis familiaris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cottam &amp; &nbsp;Dodman (2009). &#8220;Comparison of the effectiveness of a purported anti-static cape (the Storm Defender\u00ae) vs. a placebo cape in the treatment of canine thunderstorm phobia as assessed by owners\u2019 reports.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cottam et al. (2013). The effectiveness of the Anxiety Wrap in the treatment of canine thunderstorm phobia: An open-label trial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Crowell-Davis (2008). Desensitization and Counterconditioning: The Details of Success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Crowell-Davis et al. (2003). Use of clomipramine, alprazolam, and behavior modification for treatment of storm phobia in dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Curtis (2013). On Your Best Behavior: Noise &amp; Storm Phobias in Dogs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>DePorter et al. (2012). Harmonease Chewable Tablets reduces noise-induced fear and anxiety in a laboratory canine thunderstorm simulation: A blinded and placebo-controlled study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eaton et al., (2021). A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, assessing the effect of a nutraceutical tablet in the management of stress in pet dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Giussani et al. (2014). Evaluation of the efficacy of Adaptil\u00ae tablets versus placebo in the management of firework fears in dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Graham et al. (2005). The influence of olfactory stimulation on the behaviour of dogs housed in a rescue shelter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kato et al., (2012). Effects of prescription diet on dealing with stressful situations and performance of anxiety-related behaviors in privately owned anxious dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>King et al., (2014). The effect of a pressure wrap (ThunderShirt\u00ae) on heart rate and behavior in canines diagnosed with anxiety disorder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Korpivaara et al., (2017). Dexmedetomidine oromucosal gel for noise-associated acute anxiety and fear in dogs\u2014a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Landsberg et al., (2015). Dog-appeasing pheromone collars reduce sound-induced fear and anxiety in beagle dogs: a placebo-controlled study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Leeds &amp; Wagner (2009). Through a Dog&#8217;s Ear: Using Sound to Improve the Health and Behavior of Your Canine Companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mayberg et al. (2014). The functional neuroanatomy of the placebo effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>McCobb et al. (2001). Thunderstorm phobia in dogs: an internet survey of 69 cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>McDowell &amp; Shiau. (2022). Effectiveness of Integrated Medical Treatment for Thunderstorm Aversion: A Case Series of 23 Dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Morris et al. (2020). The Impact of Feeding Cannabidiol (CBD) Containing Treats on Canine Response to a Noise-Induced Fear Response Test<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nicolas et al. (2022). Owner-Perception of the Effects of Two Long-Lasting Dog-Appeasing Pheromone Analog Devices on Situational Stress in Dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Okamoto et al. (2024). Factors influencing the development of canine fear of thunder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pike et al. (2015). An open label prospective study of the use of L-theanine (Anxitane\u00ae) in storm sensitive client owned dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ramos et al. (2024). Is It Possible to Mitigate Fear of Fireworks in Dogs? A Study on the Behavioural and Physiological Effects of a Psychoactive Supplement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Riemer. (2019) Effectiveness of treatments for firework fears in dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Roth et al. (2016). Hair cortisol varies with season and lifestyle and relates to human interactions in German shepherd dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sherman &amp; Mills (2008). Canine anxieties and phobias: an update on separation anxiety and noise aversions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Storengen &amp; Lingaas (2015). Noise sensitivity in 17 dog breeds: Prevalence, breed risk and correlation with fear in other situations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>van Herwijnen et al., 2024. Firework aversion in cats and dogs as reported by Dutch animal owners.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yang (2012). Effects of Bach Rescue Remedy on Women of Various Personality Traits Evaluated by Heart Rate Variability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Zilocch et al. (2013). Problem solving games as a tool to reduce fear in dogs: preliminary results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Disclaimer: While every caution has been taken to provide my readers with the most accurate information and honest analysis, please use your discretion before taking any decisions based on the information in this blog. I will rejoice with you when you&#8217;re successful, and offer my sincerest condolences if you&#8217;re not. I will not, however, compensate you in any way whatsoever if you ever happen to suffer a loss\/inconvenience\/damage because of\/while making use of information in this blog. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Disclosure: I\u2019m not getting affiliate commissions for any products you\u2019d happen to buy after clicking links from this blo<\/em>g.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Is your dog afraid of fireworks? How about thunder? Keep reading, this blog post contains everything you need to know. This post is updated and all the links are double-checked about twice a year, last on December 19th, 2025 &#8211; look for the &#8220;revised&#8221; signs in the post to find the latest changes. Is your [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[19,6,20],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/306"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=306"}],"version-history":[{"count":209,"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/306\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8292,"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/306\/revisions\/8292"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=306"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=306"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/illis.se\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=306"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}