Dog fear

[Barkleysmom1980]

I have a 9-1/2 year old American Staffordshire Terrier.  He's always been afraid of loud shouting but now his fear has extended in the past couple weeks.  He is afraid of any loud nose - shouting, gunshots, any sudden noise that is out of the blue, etc.  When any of these things frighten him, he shakes uncontrollable and can't be comforted.  He wants to try and get away from the noise by going outside, but then is fearful outside and wants to come right back in.  I recently got him a thundershirt, but he still shivers in it.  Sometimes his shivering can last 20-30 minutes depending on what has frightened him.  Any ideas on what might be causing his new fear and what might help him?

[Barkleysmom1980]

Thanks.  I actually do have a thundershirt and it seems to have no effect on him.  I think he's been doing a bit better.  Keeping an eye on him.

[specialmom]

They make pressure vests for dogs sold at places like petsmart.  Deep pressure is know to calm the nervous system and anxiety.  Pressure vests are sold for kids to do the same thing.  They've recently come out with them and one might really help your dog stay calm and feel safe.  Google on line for information or check our your local petsmart store or web site.  

good luck

[BluCrystal]

Hhhmmm... I worked for a vet for 8 years and took care of countless dogs with all sorts of problems, one of them being fear of noises.  When we had thunderstorms, the first thing that got done was go to the kennel and see who was freaking out (thunder was LOUD in the kennel), then that dog or dogs would receive a dose of acepromazine by injection.  Of course, you can't do this, but you can ask your vet for a sedative in pill-form that will calm him.  Make sure that the vet knows the pill must be fast-acting and work for a couple of hours, at least.  Make sure you ask the vet if the pill will put him to sleep (some do), just so if he goes napping after you dose him, you know why.  Blessings - Blu