How to help dogs with severe fireworks anxiety during holidays?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Dr. Davis

  Veterinarian

  Published on August 1st, 2017

  This is a common problem and dogs often get worse as they get older. I have had success with using a Thunder Shirt or other anti anxiety wrap. This seems to comfort them. Having access to a dark comfortable area such as a crate in a closet helps some dogs. There are medications your vet can prescribe also. I recommend starting with a supplement call Solliquin. This is given daily and helps the dogs learn to relax during stressful times. I've had good success with it, and there are other prescription medications your veterinarian may recommend. Please make sure to prevent Boobie from getting injured when he is scared. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help care for Boobie.

  

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• Answered By Anna M., DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 3rd, 2017

  I would recommend calling your primary vet as soon as possible and let them know about your dogs' fears. There's unfortunately nothing over the counter that is very effective for anxiety - but firework phobias are very common in dogs, and vets are used to getting calls from pet owners asking for a short course of anti-anxiety medication to get through the holiday. Your vet will be able to prescribe something that should help! If they haven't seen your dogs recently, they may require an exam prior to prescribing the medication. My standard go-to medication for noise phobias is trazodone - it helps with the anxiety without causing dramatic sedation. However, there are other medications that can be effective as well, depending on what your vet keeps in stock. Hope that helps!

  

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