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Noise PhobiasFirework stress affects almost 50% of dogs and many cats too. Fireworks are no longer a 5th November only event and are heard throughout the Autumn and often used for many other celebrations such as birthdays, weddings and carnivals. Stress can manifest itself in many ways – many dogs will run around and vocalise, some even become destructive and may harm themselves. However, sometimes the signs of stress can be much more subtle. This is especially true for cats – they will often ‘withdraw’ and hide, meaning that their stress is not easily recognised.If stress associated with fireworks is not dealt with, it often progresses to fear of other sounds like thunder and gunshots and eventually even every day noises such as car doors slamming. As a result we must address this problem promptly and effectively to improve the welfare of our pets. Managing firework stress needs an approach to both the short and long term issue. In the short term we must manage our pets on the night. Long term we need to change the feelings our pets associate with fireworks in order that they do not become stressed. Short Term Management Short term management helps our pets cope during the firework season. Below are some useful tips to help your pet.
The most important change that must be made is for you to change your behaviour. It is completely natural to want to reassure your pet when it is stressed – however all this does is reinforce the unwanted behaviour and unfortunately makes matters worse. Long Term Management Sound desensitisation is proven to address the underlying problem by altering your pet’s reaction to the stress-inducing noises. It works by exposing your pet to the scary sounds under controlled conditions whilst it is doing something enjoyable such as chewing a favourite toy or treat. This then breaks the negative association that your pet has learned with respect to fireworks and makes the association more positive. The most common method uses CDs which are played initially for a very short amount of time at low volume. The length of time and volume is gradually increased as your pet progresses through the programme. Sound Desensitisation takes time – usually weeks to months and you must be guided by your pet as to how quickly you can progress through the program. It should not be performed when fireworks are likely to be heard. Therefore the best time to start is AFTER firework season – perhaps in the spring time. What is Zylkène and how can it help? Zylkène is a novel natural product derived from milk protein which has relaxing properties and is proven to help manage stress in cats and dogs. Zylkène comes in capsules and is given once a day, either in a treat or the capsule can be opened and the contents sprinkled on food. The powder is palatable and so administration is usually straightforward. There are no known side effects and it doesn’t cause problems such as sedation or memory loss. Zylkène can be used for both the short and long term management of firework stress. In the short term – start Zylkène 1-2 days prior to the anticipated stress of firework, and continue throughout fireworks time. It can then be stopped once fireworks are no longer heard. For long term management, Zylkène can also help your pet during the desensitisation programme as stress influences learning. Don’t worry if the programme takes several months for your pet to complete – you can give Zylkène throughout this time. There are also other treatments that can be used to help your pets when comfronted by loud noises. Please come and discuss your pet with us. Contact us on 01837 82327 |
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| © 2010 North Park Veterinary Group | North Park Veterinary Group 64 Fore St, North Tawton, Devon, EX20 2DT ..Tel: 01837 82327
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