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| "No, not fireworks!" Says Socko |
Happy Fourth of July!
While we are out enjoying the independence this nation holds dear, please remember that our pets are often affected in a negative manner by fireworks. Even when we can't hear the BOOMS, they can. Also, the pressure can be felt in the air and they have no words to tell us how they feel. This can result in unusual behaviors including, but not limited to, the pet hiding, panting, running around, huddling close to the people they love and/or being more aggressive than usual.
Here are a few things we can do for our companions:
- Be patient and calm but do not make a fuss. If your animal sees that you aren't reacting to the noise and the pressure, it will encourage them not to be freaked out either.
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| That's a good place to hide, Nemi! |
- If your pet finds a hiding place, leave them be. Sometimes the best thing they can do is wait it out.
- A bit of soothing music or white noise can help calm their fears and drown the other sounds out.
- Don't leave them alone for too long. This will only add to their stress.
- If your pet wears a thunder shirt or anxiety wrap during storms, put it on them during the fireworks.
- Keep your pets inside.
- If you have to take your dog outside, be sure they are on a leash. Even if you do not leave your yard, that extra bit of security to keep them safe in case they get startled could save your dog from running off.
- If they can be distracted, get them to focus on something they enjoy. (I.e. a game of fetch, a kong with yummies inside, some lettuce, chasing a feather wand, etc.) There's less room for fear if their minds are engaged elsewhere.
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| Lettuce distract Piglet! |
What do you do to help your pets during the Fourth of July or other scary times?
Please share your tips in the comments!
Thanks!
ADDITION
A friend of mine pointed out this very helpful article that takes things a step further. With a bit of work, you can train your pets out of their fearful response.
Here, she explains it better:
