The weather is warming up and we are all getting ready for a fun and eventful summer season! This also means that it is firework season – now is the time to pre-plan for keeping your pet calm and fear free BEFORE the festivities.
Many pets are petrified of fireworks, and it’s no wonder why; no one tells our best friends that these incredibly loud, sudden, and unexplained “bangs” are supposed to be a celebration, not an attack.
There are many options for pets to help make these holiday times happier times! Make sure to ask Dr. Oliver and her team for guidance in planning what options may be best for your pet.
General environmental adjustments can be made for your pet, especially if an unplanned event occurs:
- Keep your pet in a more “soundproof” area of the home – basement or centre room of the home (without windows).
- Have a radio or TV on.
- Make sure to have favourite toys or food/treat dispensers, “lick mats”, “snuffle mats”, etc.
- Use a pheromone diffuser, like Adaptil for dogs or Feliway for cats, to provide calming effects.
- Try to keep your routine as normal as possible – you don’t want to add more stress. Spend time/play with your pet(s).
There are many non-prescription products that are available for pets that are safe to use daily, or along with other anti-anxiety medications/therapies. Here are some common products we use:
- Zylkene: Contains hydrolyzed milk protein, an ingredient that has been shown to have calming properties. Available in a capsule or chewable treat for dogs & cats.
- Composure Pro: A treat for dogs/cats that contains colostrum, L-theanine, Thiamine (Vitamin B1) and L-tryptophan, which all provide a relaxing effect for your pet.
- Thera-Bites Mellows: A chewable treat for dogs & cats that contains colostrum, L-theanine, Valerian root, DHA, & EPA.
- A “ThunderShirt”: Like swaddling an infant, the ThunderShirt applies gentle, constant pressure to calm all types of anxiety, fear, and over-excitement issues. Available for cats & dogs.
Be safe – “just in case”:
- Keep an ID collar on your pet.
- Have your pet microchipped and ensure it is registered and your information is up to date.
- Always have your dog on a leash if outdoors for a walk.
- Keep doors/windows/yard gates closed.
Start early - Be Prepared! As most fireworks happen around holidays, ensure you have discussed your options with Dr. Oliver and have a plan for your pet. Contact us to refill your pet’s “calming” prescriptions or supplements ahead of time, in case we are closed or have reduced hours.
Our team wishes you and your pet a happy and fun summer!