Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
Get It Today
Get ready for the festivities by following our 6 Halloween pet safety tips. You'll learn what to do if your dog eats candy, which decorations are most hazardous, and more!
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Discover festive and safe holiday treats for your dogs and cats, with ideas to make the season extra special for your furry friends.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Learn how to keep all pets, from dogs to guinea pigs, safe and calm during fireworks.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Learn why thunder and lightning frighten dogs and how you can help them stay calm.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Keep your pets safe and calm during New Year's Eve with tips to reduce stress and protect them from holiday hazards.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Thanks for using Boop by Petco! This is commonly known as noise phobia. Actually one of my own dogs suffers from this so I will also tell you based on my experience. These types of behaviors can be modified with the help of dog behaviorists who specialize in these types of conditions. These specialists are hard to find as there are not many in the country. In my case, the thunder shirt helped my dog to the point that she acts pretty much normal with it on. There are medications like Trazodone that can help reduce anxiety. This is something that you can obtain from your veterinarian and is likely going to help reduce the anxiety caused by the thunder. Good luck and have a great day!
Updated on August 12th, 2025
Hello! For major anxiety inducing events, like fireworks and vet appointments, I recommend getting a prescription anti-anxiety medication. The drug Trazodone is my personal favorite for helping fearful dogs. It's an SSRI, so it works just like an anti-depressant. I give it to my dog about 45 minutes before the fireworks start, and it really helps him cope with the loud noises. You can also put cotton balls in Oso's ears, if he lets you. Most of the fearful dogs will appreciated the muted sounds. Just don't remember to take them out later! I hope this is helpful! Thanks for using Boop by Petco!
Updated on August 12th, 2025
Thanks for using Boop by Petco. It sounds like Chester’s noise phobia has worsened with each passing year (which is very common). I’d recommend getting your vet involved. He or she can help you determine if Chester needs long-term anxiety medication or some some to have on hand for times of known fireworks. Do keep up with the collar and the thunder jacket though both help some. (I don’t know how many times he’s worn the jacket but the latest study I heard about said that is has its biggest effect after the 5th wear during a storm/firework episode). Best of luck to you and Chester!
Updated on August 12th, 2025
That is a common problem for a lot of dogs and not easy to treat. You could talk to your vet about trying a medication like Trazodone, Sileo, or Alprazolam to be given prior to fireworks or a thunderstorm. Also, sitting with your dog in the basement with the tv or music playing loudly sometimes helps, too.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
This is a difficult question, as the recommendation for which medications or therapies to start for anxiety are very individualized to the patient and the specific things that are triggering their episodes. If you haven't tried some over-the-counter therapies such as a Thundershirt ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/thundershirt-heather-gray-dog-anxiety-solution ) or a pheromone diffuser ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/thunderease-calming-diffuser-kit-for-dogs ) those are often good places to start. If these aren't helping you will need to consider consulting with a vet, who can prescribe Prozac or another anxiety medication, along with behavior modification therapy.
Updated on August 12th, 2025