2023-12-23 03:25:00
Osvaldo Rinaldi*
Pets have become part of families and that invites us to reflect at this time of year on how we can go through the end of the year celebrations without harming anyone.
In recent years, we have become aware of the damage caused by excessive noise not only to canines and felines, but to many people who, for different reasons, are more sensitive to these stimuli.
In the case of dogs and cats in particular, their hearing sensitivity is such that loud noises can cause them to panic and provoke unusual behaviors such as running away aimlessly and getting lost, wounds and even biting people. Additionally, they may suffer from palpitations, tachycardia, panting, salivation, tremors, a feeling of respiratory failure, lightheadedness and loss of control, among other symptoms.
In these cases, the veterinarian should be consulted to evaluate each particular case, but the main recommendations are:
1- Create a safe space: designate a quiet area in your home where they can feel protected, with their usual toys, food and enough water.
2- Keep doors and windows closed: it is important to make sure that there are no spaces where you can escape if you get scared. In addition, in this way the impact of external noises is reduced.
3- Define a calm environment: leaving soft lights and keeping music at a moderate volume helps distract from the noise of fireworks.
4- Do not leave your animals alone: if you know that there will be fireworks near your home, try to stay nearby to provide peace of mind and support.
5- Consider using products that can reduce anxiety: some canines and felines benefit from products such as pressure shirts, pheromone diffusers or calming supplements. In all cases, it is important to consult with the veterinarian about the options available and appropriate for each animal.
6- Keep your pet identified: it is important to make sure that the animals have updated identification in case they get scared and escape.
Finally, it is important to remember that each animal is different, so we must be attentive to their individual needs and always consult a professional to evaluate the best options to care for them.
From the College of Veterinarians of the province of Buenos Aires we see the need to reflect on this issue from a cultural, social and community perspective, which also takes into account the silent risks that impact public health and the environment. therefore in health. We must continue to regulate the use of fireworks from a comprehensive perspective.
Zero pyrotechnics, Parties for everyone!
* Veterinarian and president of the College of Veterinarians of the province of Buenos Aires.
1703306895
#noise #togetherness