Some pets are absolutely terrified of thunder and fireworks. Some to the point you think they may have a heart attack and pass. There is no explaining to the poor babies that they will be ok, they jus think the world is ending. This time of year is prime for thunder storms and fireworks displays. This is also a good time to speak with your veterinarian about a game plan to help your pet. The sooner you talk about it the quicker you can get the plan in place. You may also be planning a summer vacation and want to get the plan set up for your pet sitter.
One option is to have a safe room for your pet. Black out curtains so they don’t see the flashes which let them know the boom is coming. It’s Pavlo’s dog, after a flash whether it’s lighting or fireworks there is a boom. You could play classical music or reggae music however there will be breaks in the music and you don’t want that moment for a boom. A white noise machine is consistent noise to cover the booms. On a side note, you could use both the white noise machine to cover the boom and the music to relax your pet. I mean who doesn’t like a little reggae on a hot summer day. Another thing to add to the room is Adaptil for dogs or Feliway for cats. Those are a synthetic pheromone that helps relax a pet. Not all pets respond to them and there are other products on the market. It will take up to two weeks for the plug in to get through out the room. The other things you will need to put in the room are water, food,toys, bed, a litter box for the cat and a t-shirt you slept in for your scent. .
You can also use your safe room during get-togethers. If you have people over for a cook-out they will be going in and out of the house, that is a good time for your pet to slip out without notice. On a side note, July 4th has the highest rate of lost pets. People drop food which is a chance for your pet to swoop in and eat. This may lead to a very upset stomach later and worse the pet may ingest something toxic. It also helps your pet not get overwhelmed by everyone. They can take a nap or just relax. Keep in mind you are not being cruel to keep a pet in a safe room during a storm, fireworks or a cook-out. You are keeping them safe and lowering their stress levels. Plus if you need a break you can always say you need to check on your pet.
You may also want to talk with your veterinarian about possible pharmaceuticals especially if your pet is terrified of the boom. Your veterinarian may suggest a low dose to help reduce the stress. Keep in mind that it’s not a safe room or medication and can be both. Use a little stress relief and a safe room just adds that more protection for your pet. While you are speaking with your veterinarian, ask them for suggestions.
One more piece of advice, if you are planning a vacation this summer let your pet sitter know your plan. If they have software, put the plan in the software so they have it at their fingertips. Have the room set up before you leave, you just may find it becomes your pet’s favorite room.
Today is the day to make a plan, not the day before the 4th or you go on vacation. Give yourself some time to get in touch with your veterinarian, your pet sitter, or dog trainer. You especially want to reach out to your veterinarian if you think your pet needs some pharmaceutical help. That will also give you time to pick up any prescriptions so you don’t have to scrabble later. Going on vacation and having friends over for a cook-out shouldn’t be super stressful so work on it now to get one thing checked off your list. Then put your feet up and do something good for you!
