I'm a vet – everyday habit you do without thinking could be silently destroying your dog's mental health

The Sun

5 hours ago

FOR many families, the car is a part of daily life - from school runs and the food shop to weekend getaways.
But while most drivers don't think twice about using their horn, vets are now warning that this common driving habit could be quietly harming the mental health of their beloved pets.
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Motoring experts at Plates Express have teamed up with veterinary professionals to raise awareness about the unexpected link between frequent car horn use and rising anxiety in dogs.
It's not something many pet owners consider, but according to new findings, the sharp, sudden sound of a horn especially when used often or near the home can trigger deep stress in dogs that builds up over time.
Dr Ellie Grant, a veterinary behaviour specialist, explains: 'Dogs hear things far louder and more clearly than we do.
"A car horn might just be a quick sound for us, but for dogs, especially nervous ones, it can feel like an alarm or a threat.
"Over time, repeated exposure to sudden, loud noises like honking can lead to chronic anxiety and fear-based behaviour.'
Even small, daily honks outside the house can cause pets to associate the car or the driveway with stress.
For pets left at home during the day, these sounds can feel unpredictable and threatening, leading to pacing, barking, shaking, or even destructive behaviour.
Many dog owners don't realise their pet is reacting to car horns, because the signs aren't always immediate.
But the warning signs often show up at home.
Some of the most common symptoms of horn-related anxiety include barking or howling when they hear a horn, even on TV, and hiding or retreating when cars approach the home.
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Your pooch could also show sudden aggressive or fearful behaviour during walks near traffic, or start to pant and shake when exposed to loud, unexpected sounds.
What's especially worrying, according to the experts, is that repeated stress can impact a dog's long-term mental health making them more fearful, less trusting, and more prone to panic in everyday situations.
While honking isn't always avoidable, experts say most drivers can reduce their use of the horn and help ease the pressure on nearby pets.
Here are three simple changes recommended by Plates Express and Dr. Grant:
A spokesperson from Plates Express adds: 'Most drivers never think about how their habits affect animals.
"But the simple act of using your horn too often, especially around pets can build up anxiety that lasts all day.
"We urge homeowners to treat the horn like a last resort and be more mindful, especially when pulling into their own driveway.'