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July 3rd 2012-Animal Doc AM Multi-Media

Dr. Don DeForge



CANINES WITH THUNDERSTORM ANXIETY
Coping Strategies

We are now in the summer thunder and lightening storm time of the year and many dogs and some cats become very frightened by the sizzling, crackling, and loud bang of these storms.
          
Common signs seen in dogs with noise phobia are:
  • Hiding
  • Trembling
  • Panting
  • Whining
  • Howling
  • Pacing
  • Destructive behavior in home
  • Attempts to break through screens
  • Pawing at the floor and scratching a door to escape
  • Vomiting
  • Urinating and defecating in the home
  • Other violent behavioral changes
     These problems are serious and must be addressed.  I advise all pet owners to have an immediate consultation with their veterinarian.  Don't let these problems get out of control.  Your veterinarian may ask you to see a specialist, a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists.
     Discuss with your doctor a specific Behavior Modification Program for your dog and Systematic Desensitization.  There big terms combine many ideas from those trained in dog behavior to remove a problem before it becomes difficult to modify and/or remove completely from your dog's life.
    
 These programs can combine the following:

  • Music Relaxation Systems-i.e. www.Caninelullabies.com
  • Dog Appeasement Pheromone [DAP]
  • Herbals and Botanicals
  • Acupuncture
  • The Establishment of a Safe Haven in your home
  • Food Reward Systems
  • Other ideas of well known behaviorists
These programs are too complex to present in detail in a summary of a Systematic Desensitization Program.  Many of the components are used alone and at other times are utilized in combination with other modifiers.  The most important fact from this review is to not attempt Behavior Modification on your own.  You could make the condition worse.  Never use punishment as a way to stop a noise or thunder--- abnormal behavior.  You will inadvertently set up a fear-anxiety in addition to an already serious anxiety problem.

If Systematic Desensitization does not work, the next step would be a discussion with your veterinarian about drug therapy or referral to a specialist.  Drug therapy is not utilized until all other Behavior Modification has failed.  Some of the drugs used to treat thunderstorm anxiety are:

  • Clomicalm
  • Zoloft
  • Fluoxetine
  • Diazepam
  • Amitriptyline
Never use your own prescription medicines to treat your dog's behavioral problems.  Using the wrong medicine or the wrong dosage could prove fatal.  Your veterinarian is your personal source of information.  Utilize your doctor for the correct advice and for drug selection. 

Animal Doc AM wishes you a great summer with your beloved companions.  If you need help because of storm phobia seek that help immediately.  It will only result in a terrific quality of life for your pet and make your own home-life less stressful.

Dr. Don DeForge is Animal Doc AM
Silver Sands Veterinary Center
www.SilverSandsVeterinary.com
17 Seemans Lane
Milford, CT. 06460
203-877-3221
E-Mail DonDeForge@aol.com
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