Fireworks and thunderstorms are responsible for countless reports of lost animals.  Even if fireworks are prohibited in your neighborhood many people disregard the law and set off illegal fireworks.  Many people are left with few choices such as medicating and sedating their panicked animals.

Are there other options?    We think so!

Here are a few tips to help ease your anxious dog:

Before we go any further I have to ask…

Does your pet have proper ID tags or a microchip with current information?

It’s also a good idea to have a current color photo of your animal just in case they get out.  Always check with your vet first before administering any new remedies or treatments.

1.  Try a natural stress reliever such as Rescue Remedy for at least a few days before a stressful event.  This can be a move to a new home, visitors arriving, going to the veterinarian’s office, anything that sparks anxiety with your animal.

A few drops massaged onto inside of ear flap is a good way to administer…

Although the directions may say to put a few drops in their water I prefer to place a few drops on my fingertip and massage gently onto the inside of the ear flap.  Be careful not to allow any to drip down the ear canal.  Speak in a low, soothing voice with calm energy.  You can also try a massaging a few drops onto the pads of their feet.

A natural stress reliever for animals

2. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise before a stressful event.  Taking your dog out for a long and vigorous walk will help drain them of excess energy and restlessness.

Did you know that coddling your dog when they are exhibiting fearful behavior can actually accelerate their fear?

Never reward your dog when they are in a panicked state of mind.  Try not to let them get into that raised level of anxiousness in the first place.

3. Teach your dog a ‘calm down’ command such as ‘easy’ or ‘leave it’.  Over time they will begin to figure out that when you give that command they need to stay calm and relaxed.

Dogs need guidance and instruction…they can’t learn how to stay calm on their own

4.  Play a CD or DVD of thunderstorm noises or firework celebrations on the lowest volume level possible  with your animals nearby.  Reward them with praise, treats and calm energy as they begin to hear the sounds.  Gradually increase the volume over time.   

Praise and reward them for calm behavior…

Proceed slowly, some animals may require more time to adjust. Be patient and consistent with your training.

Try playing something like this:

5. Bring your dog inside if possible.  Close all doors, windows and curtains and consider turning on the TV or radio to help drown out some of the outside noise.

If you can’t be with them try to arrange for a friend or neighbor to be with them…

6.  If possible, stay with your dog during fireworks or thunderstorms.  You become their calm and relaxed role model.  If you can’t be with them consider placing them in a safe and trusted boarding facility or with a trusted friend.  Set up a networking plan with your neighbors in case you can’t be home.

How To Help Your Cat During Stressful Events

Cats may need a quiet place to hide in during thunderstorms or other noisy events.  Consider putting your cat in a guest room with a litter box, food and water during these times.

Cats also benefit from Rescue Remedy during stressful times…

If you close the door, put a note on the outside of the door warning anyone who enters that a very scared cat is in the room and keep the door closed.  Playing soft, low music in that room can help ease your cat’s fears.  Place a towel or article of clothing that has your scent on it near them to give them an extra feeling of security.

Don’t become one of the statistics for lost animals.  Prepare now and avoid heartbreak later.