Fear of loud noise

Question
We have an Airedale Terrier who is nearly 5 years old. We have had him for 3 years. The previous owner never walked or socialised him so it was tough going at first. He has adapted really well and now loves to be outside but he has a terror of loud noise. We live in a rural area where a lot of shooting (rabbits) goes on. If we are out walking and he hears a shot he goes mad. Tail goes between legs, ears go down and he tries to get home as fast as he can. He also starts to drool badly. What can we do? We have to get tranquilisers from the vet for new year as the fireworks send him into a frenzy.

Answer
Well what works is to go to a nature store and buy a CD of sounds like thunder storms ect and play them-now do not pet him when he hides,as you would be making it worse but over time he will get used to it and ignore it all together

Also what works is a product at a nature store called 'rescue remedy' and all you need to do is put a few drops in a treat and that works wonders

Only as a last resort use drugs-as some dogs that is the only way to go,but try the other two ways first