Does the Fourth of July fireworks or a single clap of thunder send your canine or feline cowering under the bed? Loud noises upset many a companion animal, leaving them looking anxious and feeling nervous. Fears often surface in smaller breeds of dogs and in pets who were not socialized adequately, but virtually any size or type of dog or cat can become startled, and shaken, by unexpected loud noise.
Dog & Cat Anxiety - No Special Treatment
Although your natural reaction may be to comfort a nervous pet with a soothing toe and food treats, comforting him can actually reinforce this behavior. He'll learn that he will be rewarded whenever he shows fear. You can offer a few kind words, but it's beset not to cater to your pet. Not only will this help you remain calm, it can help avoid the accidental scratch from an hysterical, panicking animal. For mild cases, it's best to ignore your pet while allowing him to quiver wherever he feels most comfortable - under the bed, in the back of the closet, or perhaps in his crate. Be sure to praise him when he comes out of hiding and is more relaxed.
No Cat & Dog Anxiety Medication - Just Record & Play!
Another effective way to deal with your pet's fears is to introduce him to the offending noise under controlled conditions. You'll need to buy or make a recording of the sound he dislikes — be it thunderstorms or cars — and begin to play the tape at a low volume. Make sure you're involved in a positive activity with your pet when you play the tape, such as feeding an evening meal or engaging in a play session. Schedule this exercise during a time when you know the noise in question will not occur naturally. The idea is to play the tape so low that it is ignored by your pet. Slowly, over many weeks, you can raise the volume. If your pet appears fearful at any time throughout the process, the tape is too loud, too soon. Gradually increase the volume of the tape until it is equally as loud as the real thing. Ideally, this will take at least several weeks, but your pet should be better equipped to handle an actual occurrence of the noise.
Soothe Dog & Cat Anxiety with Pressure
If your phobic animal has an extremely severe reaction to loud noises, such as urinating, or biting, ANIMED recommends that you seek professional help. A trainer of behaviorist can work out an effective program with you. Often times, these professionals will use a product call Anxiety Wrap to deal with an anxious pet. This product works by using a technique called maintained pressure which has been proven to aid in calming anxious pets.
The information is brought to you by The Anxiety Wrap™. For more information, please access our website at www.anxietywrap.com
