Understanding & Treating Depression
We love our fur babies! Part of loving our fur babies means preparing for potential discomfort. July 4th is a time to celebrate our nation’s independence, while keeping those we love safe, calm, and comfortable, especially with the loud fireworks and crowded celebrations. Here are the best pet care tips:
- Create a safe space. Identifying a quiet, secure area in your home where your pet is able to retreat is best. If they have been crate trained, it is a good idea to have it open and available for them to lay down. There should be familiar items in the space, like their favorite blankets and toys. Close all the windows, window coverings, and doors to muffle the sound from outside. If your pet is used to being outside, be sure to keep them inside during the fireworks.
- Tire them out. Play outside early in the day before the festitivies really start. Exercise them early in the day and walk them before sunset, so that they can walk before the fireworks start. This will help them to be more relaxed later on when all the noises are happening.
- Use Calming Tools. There are anxiety vests that work well for some pets, as well as pheromone diffusers and white noise machines. Talk to your vet about safe calming supplements your pet can take or anxiety reducing medications if needed.
- Avoid danger. Stay aware of your environment and keep your pets away from sparklers, glow sticks, alcohol, and food scraps. Pay attention to trash that tends to get thrown on the ground. Let others know what they can and can’t feed your pet.
- ID & Microchip. Make sure your pet has their collar on with an up to date identification tag. Also be sure to check that your microchip is current. You can also have them wear an air tag as well. Sadly more pets go missing on July 4th than any other day of the year.
- Watch for Signs of Stress. Pay attention to your dog’s actions. Are they hiding, cowering, shaking, panting, whining or trying to get away. Always offer comfort and allow them to go to their own space if they need.
- Love on them more than normal. Fireworks and crowds of people can be especially taxing on your pet. Be sure to let them know you’re there for them and they can be with you. If you plan to leave the house and keep your dog at home for any length of time, see if you can have a sitter or pet walker come by to check on them and time yourself so that you’re only gone a certain period of time so you can be with them soon.
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