Like humans, dogs experience stress, separation anxiety, and noise phobias, such as those caused by storms or fireworks. As pet owners, we worry for them and wonder what to do. The development of pheromone-based canine products actively help to reduce anxiety levels. Here’s how it works:
Based on an interview by Sandy Eckstein with Jacqui Neilson owner of the Animal Behavior Clinic, a veterinary behavioral referral practice in Portland, in the US, the doctor said that pheromones are a type of chemical communication between members of a species. The vomeronasal organ, which is located between the nose and mouth, receives pheromones. Dr. Neilson also said that there are certain pheromones, called calming or appeasing pheromones that can sometimes help relieve stressed pets.
For more than a decade now, synthetic appeasing pheromones (e.g. Adaptil) are developed for
the relief of anxiety experienced by dogs and it comes in 4 different forms –spray, wipes, diffusers and collars. A collar is the preferred option as long as your dog does not have extensive lesions. You can also use a diffuser as it works like a built-in air freshener. You can use a spray if you want to control the intervals that your dog required the pheromones. Lastly, you may use single-use disposable pheromone wipes applied to the inside of a clean carrier, crate or any other hard surface. All of these four options provide reassurance and comfort to puppies and dogs of all ages. These pheromone-based products calm and soothe dogs during visits by strangers, loud noises, travelling or new surroundings.
For dog owners and pet minders, these products can be a great help to settle a dog into a new environment.
This blog is not intended to make any claims that the products can be used to diagnose, treat, mitigate, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition. Always consult your vet for any medical conditions.