Anyone who owns a dog is probably well aware of how distressed they get when fireworks start going off.
While fireworks are maybe a bit more common in the summer months, some exciting news from the FDA has been released that will make a lot of pet parents happy so we couldn't wait to share it.
A new drug has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the use in dogs to help treat those sweet pups who are suffering from noise-induced anxiety!
This is really awesome news for dog owners, because a lot of time loud noises like fireworks, or even just generally loud events can be extremely stressful on our canine companions. But now this new drug can help reduce these reactions and may save a lot of dogs the trauma of these experiences.
According to the FDA, noise aversion in dogs isn't just when they are startled by a sound. Instea, they explain that it actually becomes a legitimate problem that can result in "hiding; vocalizing (whining, barking, howling); panting, shaking or trembling; or may vomit, urinate or defecate. Some dogs may damage furniture, doors, dog beds, or other items in their surroundings."
The new drug is called Pexion and it went through vigorous testing. Specifically, Pexion was tested during a New Years Eve firework display last year.
The dogs received the drug twice daily for the two days before New Years Eve. "The owners evaluated their dogs' responses to the fireworks at four pre-set intervals and scored the level of 16 different behaviors. The overall score for the dogs receiving Pexion were lower (better) than those receiving the placebo."
The results were pretty impressive. 66% of those who gave the dogs the drug noticed a definite improvement in their reactions.
It will be a vet-prescribed drug that you use the two days before the expected noisy event.
Like all medications, there are a few side effects that are associated with the new drug. The FDA states "the most common adverse reactions seen in the study were ataxia (difficulty standing and walking), increased appetite, lethargy, and vomiting."
But if noise has been a huge issue for your dog in the past that has led them to run away, get sick, or end up hurting themselves, this may be something you should talk to your vet about!
It's really nice to know that researchers are finding treatments for our dogs, because they are part of the family and we want them to live happy lives.
Source - People