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DAP
Diffuser eases firework suffering for dogs
A SYNTHETIC version of naturally produced canine chemicals may
offer relief to thousands of dogs suffering from fright and
stress caused by fireworks.
Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) is a synthetic version of chemicals
produced by a bitch shortly after whelping which helps to reassure
and calm newborn puppies.
Recent research by scientists at the University of Lincoln has
shown that DAP may help to control a wide range of stress-related
conditions including firework phobias and general fear of loud
noises.
"Unlike drugs, DAP does not sedate the animal and make
it sleepy but allows it to continue about its daily business,"
said Daniel Mills, principal lecturer in behavioural studies
and animal welfare at the university.
"Another advantage is that a single unit may run through
the whole season and potentially help in the case of those unexpected
occasions, when drugs may not have been administered."
The research, published last year in The Veterinary Record,
reveals that in a study of 30 dogs who showed signs of fear
in response to the sight and sound of fireworks last year there
was a general reduction in the severity of their problem compared
to previous years, following the continuous use of the DAP in
the home when combined with traditional therapies.
"Our interpretation of why this pheromone therapy works
is based on the release of a chemical signal which makes things
appear familiar," Mr Mills said.
"In many animals it is uncertainty or novelty which triggers
the signs of anxiety and stress which are so distressing. If
that uncertainty can be removed then the stress will cease to
exist."
DAP is available as a plug-in diffuser from most vets, although
prices for this may vary. In many cases, using the diffuser
has negated the need for drug treatment.
One dog owner who has seen the positive effects of DAP at first
hand is Anne Mears from East Coker, Somerset, who started using
a DAP diffuser for her elderly Collie Dixie just before Bonfire
Night last year.
"I bought a DAP diffuser for Dixie as a last resort really.
Over the past few years it seems, as fireworks have been getting
louder, his terror has increased. He paces, trembles, whimpers
and drools continuously, and tries to climb onto my lap. It
is impossible to get him into the garden for some hours after
the noise has stopped, so on occasions his house training has
broken down - which only serves to upset him further. I find
sleep for myself impossible too, as he gets into bed with me,
too scared to be out of bodily contact.
“As he is getting on for 12 now I was very worried about
the possible side effects of heavy sedation, which was fast
becoming the only option I hadn't tried.
“To my surprise - and total delight - the diffuser has
worked superbly!
“Dixie spent this year's Bonfire Night laid next to my
chair, quite happily snoozing. When a couple of very loud explosions
happened overhead he did get up and come and nudge me with his
nose, so I gave him a few drops of Rescue Remedy, and instigated
a game with a loud squeaky toy, and that was all I needed to
do.
“I am delighted, and have the DAP diffuser on now, over
the Christmas and New Year period, confident that it will work
its magic should we have fireworks then.
“The only drawback, of course, is that unless I have it
on continuously I can't protect Dixie from the random fireworks
which seem to be set off at all times of the year, and I am
annoyed that my elderly boy should have to suffer this way because
a few selfish people like letting off explosives. It simply
isn't fair."
See also Nick May’s story 'Firework
ban sought for 2003'
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