fear of thunder and firecrackers

Question
My dog (Angel) is a 9 1/2 year old Norweigen Elkhound/German Shepherd mix.  My husband and I had twins 2 years ago which has been pretty hard on her.  She has been my baby.  On top of that she is terrified of thunder and firecrackers.  She pees on the floor (a lot) diggs the carpet and she almost hiperventilates.  She gets dehyrated due to the fact that she is slobbering and panting so much.  Then she drinks a gallon of water which in turn comes right out the other end.  I am worried that she might have a heart attack.  I know she is misserable living like this.  I have actually slept with her on the bathroom floor with the fan on.  I cant leave her alone or that would be perfect to just shut the door but she tries to scratch the door down.  I have tried medication for her and that doesnt help.  What else can I do.  My husband and I have been talking about putting her down.  I really dont want to do that but dont know what to do anymore.  Any suggestions????

Answer
Ok.  I actually have a great suggestion.  I have seen this work for many dogs.  It's just a shame she's getting on as it will be harder to fix permanently.

I have used special desensitizing CDs on many dogs.  You can play them anytime.  They have tracks of different sounds recorded such as thunder,  fireworks,  guns(for policedogs),  and other noises.  You start off playing it very quietly (judge it by your dogs reaction) and reward your dog with a favourite thing such as food or a toy. Make everything really pleasant for your dog.  Extra attention etc.  Using this method you can increase the volume gradually. Also increase your dogs exposure to it.  The theory is that your dog begins to associate these sounds with good things, and fun.  The dog begins to see them as a normal part of life.

I find the sounds scary cd on this page a good product. -

http://www.discoverpets.co.uk/store/dogs-therapy-c-5_80.html


Good luck