Is Your Dog Scared of Fireworks, Thunder? There’s New Meds For That

The Fourth of July Weekend can be a tough one for pups who don't like loud noises.

Over 40% of dogs suffer from noise anxiety, and animal shelters report that July 5th is their most busy day for taking in runaways is July 5th.

"It's very serious," said Dr. Melissa Bain, an associate professor of clinical animal behavior at the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine. "It's a true panic disorder with a complete flight response."

I know the feeling. As our miniature schnauzer Pepper has gotten older (she'll be 8 this year), her noise anxiety has gotten a lot worse. It never used to bother her, but now, she hides in our closet when there's fireworks. They're building a new house right next to us, and when the big trucks are rumbling around, she refuses to go outside and (sometimes) pees in the house.

We've tried diffusers, calming collars, the whole lot. But now, there's something that might help: a new drug called Sileo, which inhibits norepinephrine, a brain chemical associated with anxiety.

It's FDA approved, and it's basically a mild sedative which can be administered via a syringe between your dog's cheeks and gums. One syringe (with multiple doses) is about $30.

If drugs aren't something that you want to try, vets say that you should NOT try to comfort your pets if they hide from fireworks or loud noises. They say that you should acknowledge your dog, but not make a "fuss" over them. Let them make the choice themselves.

I'd be interested to see if this works! Would you try it? Good luck to all the dog parents this weekend!