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Firework Phobia in Dogs and Calming Supplements: A Guide to a Peaceful Bonfire Night

Published: 18.10.2023

Understanding this phobia is crucial for pet owners, especially during the upcoming fireworks season. We offer a range of calming supplements to help soothe your pet’s nerves.

Understanding Firework Phobia in Dogs

Before addressing the remedies, it's essential to understand the nature of the problem. Firework phobia in dogs can manifest in several ways:

  • Panic and Fear: Shaking, whimpering, hiding, or seeking constant comfort.
  • Escape Behaviour: Trying to run away or find a safe place, which may result in injury.
  • Restlessness: Pacing or inability to settle.
  • Destructive Behaviour: Chewing or destroying objects out of anxiety.

These reactions stem from a dog's natural instinct. In the wild, a loud noise would often signal danger, prompting either a 'fight or flight' response. In our modern world, this translates to the distressed behaviours many owners witness during firework events.

Calming the Storm: Supplements to Help

Recognising the need for solutions, we've listed a range of our most popular calming supplements and products that have shown good results in pacifying dogs during stressful times.

  1. Anxitane:
    What is it? - Anxitane contains L-Theanine, a component found in green tea, known for its calming properties.
    How does it work? - L-Theanine helps modulate brain activities, thereby reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation without drowsiness.
    Usage: Tablets can be given twice daily and are palatable for most dogs.

  2. Pet Remedy Spray:
    What is it? - A natural de-stressing and calming spray with a unique blend of essential oils.
    How does it work? - The spray mimics natural calming agents that provide immediate stress relief.
    Usage: Simply spray on the dog's bedding or in the air around them.

  3. Adaptil Chews:
    What is it? - Chewable tablets containing all natural ingredients.
    How does it work? - These chews replicate the pheromone mother dogs release to calm and reassure their puppies.
    Usage: Administer an hour before the expected event for optimal results.

  4. Calmex:
    What is it? - A natural dietary supplement promoting relaxation.
    How does it work? - Contains a blend of herbal ingredients known for their calming effects.
    Usage: Can be mixed with food or given directly.

  5. Sileo (Prescription Only):
    What is it? - A medicated gel that is specifically designed for dogs with noise phobias.
    How does it work? - It acts on the dog's central nervous system, reducing anxiety without sedating.
    Usage: Consult your vet, as this medication requires a prescription and Veterinary guidance.

Recommendations and Tips

While supplements provide excellent support, combining them with other calming strategies will further ensure your dog's comfort:

  • Safe Space: Create a quiet, darkened room with familiar items where your dog can retreat.
  • Distractions: Playing soft music or using white noise machines can help mask the sounds of fireworks.
  • Comfort: Stay with your dog, offering comfort and reassurance. Your presence alone can be immensely calming.

Related Products

Anxitane Chewable Tablets - Small x 30

Anxitane Chewable Tablets - Small x 30

Anxitane - The stress-reducing chewable tablet for dogs and cats.

Anxitane is a highly palatable calming tablet containing the natural ingredient L-theanine, which helps calm and reduce anxiety in small dogs and cats without causing drowsiness.

Anxitane Chewable Tablets are supported by extensive safety and efficacy research.

£17.60
Anxitane Chewable Tablets - Large x 30

Anxitane Chewable Tablets - Large x 30

Anxitane - The stress-reducing chewable tablet for Dogs.

Anxitane is a highly palatable calming tablet containing the natural ingredient L-theanine, which helps calm and reduce anxiety in medium and large dogs without causing drowsiness.

Anxitane Chewable Tablets are supported by extensive safety and efficacy research.

£21.13
Sileo Gel for Dogs - 3ml

Sileo Gel for Dogs - 3ml

Sileo Gel for Dogs – Treatment for Noise-Induced Anxiety and Fear

Sileo Gel for Dogs is a prescription medication designed to help manage acute anxiety and fear triggered by loud sounds. It contains dexmedetomidine, an active ingredient that reduces stress and panic responses without causing sedation. Sileo is commonly used during events such as thunderstorms, fireworks, and loud gatherings, where noise sensitivity can cause distress in dogs.

Noise-induced anxiety is a common behavioural issue in dogs. Sudden loud sounds can trigger an intense fear response, leading to pacing, trembling, excessive panting, or attempts to hide or escape. These reactions can be distressing for both the dog and the owner. Sileo Gel provides a targeted solution by calming the dog without impairing normal function, allowing them to remain alert and responsive while feeling more at ease.

How Sileo Gel Works

Sileo Gel contains dexmedetomidine hydrochloride, a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that reduces the release of norepinephrine, a brain chemical responsible for stress and anxiety responses. By lowering norepinephrine levels, Sileo helps to calm the dog and reduce signs of fear without causing drowsiness or loss of coordination.

Administered as an oral transmucosal gel, Sileo is applied between the dog’s cheek and gum. It is absorbed through the mucous membranes, allowing for fast-acting relief within 30 to 60 minutes. The effects last for several hours, helping dogs remain calm during prolonged noise events. Unlike some sedatives, Sileo does not cause significant lethargy, meaning dogs can still interact normally with their surroundings.

Sileo is specifically designed for situational anxiety caused by loud sounds. It is not intended for general anxiety or long-term behavioural issues. It should be used under veterinary guidance, with dosage based on the dog's weight to ensure effectiveness and safety.

VETERINARY PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED

£21.44
Pet Remedy Calming Spray - 200ml

Pet Remedy Calming Spray - 200ml

200ml Pet Remedy Calming Spray - Calms your pet using a unique blend of Valerian, Vetiver, Sweet Basil, and Sage essential oils.

£13.46
Calmex for Dogs - 12 Capsules

Calmex for Dogs - Pack of 60

Calmex for Dogs is a NEW calming supplement which contains a unique combination of amino acids, B Vitamins and a psychoactive plant extract from Piper methysticu. Calmex for Dogs 60 Capsules

£54.72
Adaptil Chews for Dogs - Pack of 30

Adaptil Chews for Dogs - Pack of 30

Adaptil Chews are soft and tasty chewable tablets that help reduce tension or anxiety during fireworks, thunderstorms, travel or vet visits. These chews help to relax the dog, without making him sleepy. Pack of 30

£32.96