Fireworks + Pets = Anxiety!

A time for fun and exciting traditions, such as 4^th of July, can cause anxiety to dogs. Several dogs have anxiety problems when it comes to fireworks because they are loud and unpredictable.  As 4^th of July approaches, owners should make sure their dogs have on an updated tag in case they get lost.  On 4^th of July, there are several ways to help calm your dogs.

·         Keep your pet inside with distractions such as playing, chewing on rawhides, or peanut butter in a kong.

·         Place your pet in a dark confined area with loud music or TV, such as bathroom or a crate.

·         Buy a thunder shirt to help reduce anxiety

o   Must be placed on dog early in the day

§  www.thundershirt.com

·         Can try hormones such as Adaptil D.A.P. collar to help reduce anxiety

§  Holly tree website

To help you reduce your pet’s anxiety, you may have to try one or several of these ideas to comfort your pet.  For extreme anxiety, you need to make an appointment with your local veterinarian. Your veterinarian might prescribe ant anxiety medications or an oral sedative.  The main thing to remember is to keep your pet safely inside at all times during this fun celebration.

~Elizabeth Lockwood - LVT