Noise Aversion: Comforting Your Pet

Veterinarians used to say that it was inappropriate to comfort pets when they are frightened by a noise event because it would reinforce the fear response. Sara L. Bennett, DVM, MS, DACVB, owner of Veterinary Behavior Consultations in Fort Branch, Indiana, says that it is very difficult to reinforce an emotional response with comfort, so it is OK to pet your dog or cat when they are frightened by a noise event.