Community Spirit, March 2018

least two weeks prior and will not be sufficient alone if your
dog’s fear is profound. Other complementary products with
anxiolytic effects are available through most health food
shops, including Passiflora and Valerian extracts. Care must be
taken with Valerian, however, as it has sedative effects in
addition to reducing anxiety, and enhances the effects of many
other products, including anticonvulsants, anxiolytics and
anaesthetics. Though nutraceuticals and complementary
products are natural, you must always consult your vet before
giving them to your dog, as they will interact with other
medications your dog may be taking, medical conditions she
may have, or emergency veterinary care she may need, and
naturally does not necessarily mean safe! Please also ensure
you do not underestimate the fear your dog may be
experiencing – though other complementary therapies such as
homoeopathy or Bach Flower Remedies are available, they
have not been included here as their use may be more
appropriate for mild long-term anxiety, not for acute and
intensely frightening events involving loud explosions.
Ultimately, try to avoid leaving your dog home
alone when she is likely to be frightened by
fireworks, and in some cases, it may be better to
send her for a holiday with a trusted friend or
family member. If this is not possible, then
hopefully you have found some useful advice here.
If your dog has a noise phobia the most humane
option is to aim to modify your dog’s fear in the
long-term through seeking the help of both your
vet and a professional behaviourist.
With up to half of our dogs experiencing noise phobias, Fallas
can be a very challenging time for them, and the fear and
distress they may feel can genuinely compromise their welfare.