Every 5th of July our local shelters are overrun by hundreds of dogs & cats who got spooked by Independence Day celebrating and find themselves lost and afraid. The good news is a few simple steps will keep them safe and ensure you can enjoy the festivities.

• Double check that your dogs tags & microchip information are up to date
  • Hopefully, if they do make a break for it someone will reunite you by the time the last sparkler dies out
  • There’s nothing more frustrating to rescuers than calling a phone number listed on a tag or microchip only to find it’s been disconnected
• Keep them inside
  • The more inside the better. IF your pet is particularly afraid consider either crating them or closing them in a walk-in closet.
  • Not only will an interior room help dampen the fireworks but will give them added security
• Thunder Shirts work wonders
  • A thunder shirt is a snug fitting jacket which utilizes pressure points to calm pets, like swaddling a baby
  • This is a product you can find online and at most pet retailers
  • It’s a drug free option
• Leave the TV or radio on
  • Most pets are used to the sounds of a TV or Radio so fireworks might not be so alarming as they would be in a silent house
  • If it’s a little on the loud side the background noise will help drown out the booming fireworks
• Consider essential oils
  • Don’t feed your pet essential oils
  • Don’t apply essential oils directly on your pet
  • Use a diffuser or spray in the room with your pet
  • Lavender, Valerian, Ylang Ylang are just a few options that may help calm your dog’s anxiety
  • It’s a good idea to watch your pet for a while the first time you use a new product
• Medication
  • If your dog has extreme anxiety talk to your vet about possible medication options
  • Do yourself a favor and have this conversation well in advance of the 4th.
  •  Some people find even something as simple as benadryl can be enough of a sedative
  • Be sure to consult your vet for proper dosage before giving your dog any medication

Our dogs may never appreciate the appeal of watching lights explode in the sky, but with a little preparation we can get them through the experience unphased.

Wishing you a Beautiful & Joyous Independence Day!!!

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