We know music is soothing to humans and veterinary scientists agree it also benefits dogs, but because animals have a heighten sense of hearing the music we enjoy might not be the right sounds for them. Nashville musician Taylor Brown has set out to create an album titled “The Ruff Cuts” that benefits both, dog and humans alike.

The idea to produce dog friendly music came about after Taylor’s own French Bulldog named Nala started having anxiety issues. His father, a veterinarian with over 40 years of experience suggested leaving the TV on when the dog was left alone. The pet owner knew certain sounds normal to us are scary to dogs and that’s when he turned to veterinarian experts to create science based music that helps dogs feel comforted, calm and secure.

“I believe that when used properly, this unique, dog friendly music could be a promising drug-free approach for preventing and treating separation and anxiety problems in our dogs,” said Kenneth Brown DVM, Taylor’s father.

Because dogs perceive sound frequencies at a higher level than we can, leaving the TV or radio on isn’t ideal for creating a stress-free environment. The frequency and dynamic range of sounds made for humans are too unpredictable and have a good chance of including the types of sounds that can easily frighten our dogs.

“The Ruff Cuts” is not just an outdated collection of symphonic rehashes. All songs are uniquely created by Taylor, a graduate of Seattle’s Cornish College of The Arts, and are upbeat original tunes humans will enjoy while incorporating relaxing tones and reaffirming statements designed to comfort dogs and increase stimuli in their environment.

“I wanted to make music for dogs that both people and dogs could enjoy together,” said Taylor. “I knew that no matter how well it worked on dogs, if people didn’t want to listen to it, then they weren’t going to play it for them.”

This innovative music album needs financial support to cover the final production costs. The musician started a Kickstarter campaign to raise enough funds and see this project through completion. Backers will receive a digital download of the twelve song album for just $15 and a physical CD can be mailed for just $25.

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Summer time can be a stressful time of the year for dogs.  Increased thunderstorms and fireworks can make for a rough time for your pet’s, especially with all the loud noises associated with both.  Thanks to Barkbusters, there are some things you can do to help.

Richard and Vicki Horowitz are the force behind Barkbusters.  They are all too familiar with how difficult it can be to keep a dog under control under these circumstances.  Dogs can exhibit behaviors like running and hiding, panicking and barking, and becoming destructive.

They attribute this seasonal fear with two things.  First, your dog can sense the change in the weather.  They pick up on the drop in barometric pressure, and often will detect a huge storm before it actually hits where you are.  This early warning system usually drives the animals affected by it to find shelter, but that’s something your dog already has.  For some reason, this is a big time stressor for most dogs.

The second thing it has to do with is sound.  Dogs and many other animals have an acute sense of hearing.  Sometimes, so much so that something like a clap of thunder, or an exploding firework becomes nothing short of terrifying.

So, what can be done to help your dog?  Well, here are a few suggestions the Horowitz’s have to help with storms:

• “Always keep proper identification securely fastened to your dog’s collar in case your dog gets out. Be sure to keep it up to date.”
• “Give your dog a safe place to stay during storms. Create a quiet den-like area where your dog can feel secure. A crate or kennel can be a calming refuge.”
• “If your dog lives outside, cover his doghouse or dog run with a blanket to shield him from the bursts of lightning.”
• “Dogs can pick up fear or discomfort with storms from their owners.  Let your dog stay close and try to distract him with activities like play or brushing. Do not try to reassure him in a sympathetic voice—this will sound like praise and may increase his nervousness and anxiety.”
• “Some dogs become destructive when frightened. A crate or confined area is always the best way to keep your dog safe and minimize any destructive behavior.”
• “During a storm, keep windows and curtains closed to reduce noise and bright flashes. Turn on a TV or radio playing soft music at normal volume to distract your dog and help him to relax.”
• “Keep your dog away from doors that lead outside. This will minimize the chance of your dog getting out should he look to escape.”
• “If your dog is very anxious, it may become incontinent. Be prepared and don’t react in a negative manner.”
• “Dogs that are fearful of thunderstorms may have to be reconditioned by creating an artificial storm using YouTube videos or storm sounds.”
• “In the most extreme cases, speak with your veterinarian about possible medication treatments to help your dog cope with his fear of storms.”

When it comes to the 4th of July and fireworks:

• “Many of the same suggestions we discussed for thunderstorms are also relevant when it comes to fireworks.  But there are some additional considerations.”
• “If you are going to the fireworks, leave your dog at home.  This is where he will be the safest and most comfortable.”
• “Never leave your dog in the car. A partially opened window does not supply sufficient fresh air for him to breathe, and it creates an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.”
• “If possible, stay with your pet during the majority of the fireworks. A dog often reacts more intensely to loud sounds and flashes of lights when you are not with him.”
• “Consider hiring a pet sitter to stay with your dog while you are away from home.”

Using these suggestions should make it much easier for your dog when faced with these very scary things.  Consistent practice will help foster your dog’s behavior, and provide good coping mechanisms that dogs can do without human intervention.  For more information, or to find out more about Barkbusters, you can click here.  There are a variety of topics covered, and great tips on helping you and your dog become even better friends!

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