Do Loud Noises Affect Dogs?…
What The Experts SayI could only find 2 cases where the hearing loss of dogs due to loud noises was either being studied or treated. Few “experts” are addressing the effect of loud noises on a dog’s ears. In one study, Mississippi State veterinary faculty members, clinicians and students are trying to demonstrate whether a hunting dog’s frequent exposure to gunshots can progressively damage its hearing. Preliminary results from the study: While a healthy Lab begins to hear sounds at about 10 or 15 decibels–much like a healthy human–Mackin said one test animal that has been heavily exposed to gunshots didn’t respond until 60 decibels, which is quite loud … The research group also includes Dr. David Jennings, a neurologist, and Dr. Amy Janda, a small animal intern, as well as two veterinary students. Janda said the sound at 60 decibels is comparable to half the noise of a jet engine.” And their preliminary conclusion: Perhaps in the future we will recommend the same precautions for h
