Linda Lou here with a few quick tips to help us get through the 4th of July weekend…
If your neighborhood is anything like mine, it sounds like a war zone most nights after dark for several days mid-summer. We are talking about wall-shaking booms and a sulfur smell in the air. This can be very frightening for many pets (and people). Let’s take a look at some ways to reduce the stress during our country’s celebration!
Have a safe and Happy 4th of July!
~Linda Lou, the Patriotic Blog Dog
If your neighborhood is anything like mine, it sounds like a war zone most nights after dark for several days mid-summer. We are talking about wall-shaking booms and a sulfur smell in the air. This can be very frightening for many pets (and people). Let’s take a look at some ways to reduce the stress during our country’s celebration!
- Always keep a properly fitting collar with ID tags on your pet during the holiday weekend, even when they are inside. Scared pets have been known to get away from owners, run out doors, etc. If you have not had your pet microchipped, that would also be something to consider.
- Make sure you have current pictures of your pet (I mean, who doesn’t have half of their phone filled up with pet pics?) and contact information for the local shelters in your area for the worst case scenario of an escaped family member.
- Try putting your pets in a quiet room with a radio playing to help muffle the noise. Have their favorite blankie or toys in the room, too. If they have a carrier, that could also be placed in the room, with the door propped open. So, turn the lights down low, put on some Barry White and close the door… everything will be ok.
- Don’t console a frightened pet – this just reinforces that there is something to be afraid of. I know, it’s really hard not to pet Fluffy when she is shaking and carrying on, but tough love wins in this situation. Just act normal. If you are nervous or anxious too, perhaps separate yourself from your pet, as they will pick up on your anxiety. Unless of course you have a trained therapy dog. They rock!
- Exercise your pet before the fireworks start. A tired pet may be a calmer pet. It also gives your pet a chance to be distracted by some new smells for a bit. Admit it, we all could probably use some exercise too…. 😉
- Consult your veterinarian prior to the holiday to ask if there would be medication that would help your furry friend during stressful events. There are Over-The-Counter calming treats and supplements that may help take the edge off of a mildly anxious animal. If your pet is beyond OTC help, medications like Trazodone can really be a game changer. Do not try to dose your pet yourself – please consult your veterinarian.
- Lastly, avoid discarded fireworks that are littering the ground. Don’t let your pet ingest them as there could be some poisonous material left on them. I know, they smell weird and sometimes it’s fun to put things we shouldn’t in our mouths, but just don’t. No bueno. (I am learning Spanish!)
Have a safe and Happy 4th of July!
~Linda Lou, the Patriotic Blog Dog
