While we look forward to the fun and excitement of celebrating our Nation’s Independence, it is not equally joyous for our pets (nor our soldiers with PTSD). Here are some things to keep in mind whether you are planning a party or to stay home:
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Select the calming aides you wish to use, in advance. Not every option will work for every dog, so it is good to give yourself time to explore and see what will be the best fit for your pup. There are several herbal options with different blends available for dogs who are just mildly anxious, and then there is CBD with calming herbs to help those dogs who need something more for their more severe fear. It is important to begin dosing an herbal or CBD tincture at least a few days before you expect the stressful event and then consider upping their dosage (CBD has a wide safety range on dosing) on the day of the actual event.
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Use Essential Oils. Good quality lavender essential oils are very helpful for calming cats and dogs. You can put it in your diffuser or even put a few drops onto their favorite bed (although it is an oil and will stain some fabrics), put some on your own arms for them to smell when they snuggle with you, etc. Therapeutic grade lavender essential oil can be used directly onto the skin. There are many brands, but Young Living and doTERRA are typically the most popular.
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Check all your gate latches and secure weak spots. Even dogs who don’t typically try to run away can be pretty creative when they are fear stricken. Many dogs will dig and jump to the point of injuring themselves out of the fear caused by the loud booms and vibrations. July 5th is a dreadful day for local shelters and rescue workers as so many loved pets are found running loose and injured. Keep your dogs safe indoors and monitor when they go outside. If you are hosting a party, keep them in a closed room or crate if necessary. If this is your best option, keep the music going in their space as well and find a safe boredom buster for them.
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Update all ID sources. Buy an inexpensive nylon collar at the Dollar store and use a sharpie to write their name and your phone number, address, etc. directly onto the collar. Make sure all tags are current and haven’t been worn off.
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Turn up the music or TV. Before the booms and vibrations begin, turn up your own noise to help block out the sounds outside. Keep your doors and windows closed as well as the drapes if there is a view of fireworks through your window.
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Remain calm yourself. Your dogs will mimic your energy. If you act scared and stressed out, they will too. Do what you need to do to remain calm so that they see they don’t need to panic. Coddling them in a fearful state can reinforce that behavior as well, so be patient and caring without overdoing it.
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Be Respectful. If you are blowing off fireworks, remember that your joy shouldn’t cause someone else’s misery. Not only pets, but our nation’s own soldiers who fought for our freedom are often triggered by the sound of unexpected fireworks. Go enjoy a planned community event or if you must blow them up in your own neighborhood, let your neighbors know in advance so they can be prepared.
Stop by The Fetching Dog in Scottsdale for all of your local pet supply needs! We've got plenty of calming aids, CBD treats, and more for your July 4th celebrations.