PAWS TO PONDE

by Suzyn Barron, President of Warwick Valley Humane Society, Inc. 

Did you know, with the Fourth of July upon us, I would be remiss if I didn’t remind everyone to protect their pets from the sounds and sights of fireworks.  It’s honestly the worst time of year for pets.  Many go missing and are in flight mode.  These sudden loud noises cause fear and stress for some pets while others may seem unaffected.  As their caregivers, it is our responsibility to do everything possible to keep them safe and feeling secure.  

Dr. Marty Goldstein, a highly recognized integrative veterinarian, recommends the following for our canine family members:

~ Keep any dangerous party food out of reach ie. onions, raisins, grapes, chocolate and any food containing Xylitol. Also, hot dogs, corn on the cob and barbeque skewers which are major choking hazards.  And always use a trash can with a secure lid.

~ Keep your dog inside during the party. Loud and unpredictable noises can cause stimulus overload for your pet which may cause them to panic.  If inside, they will look for a place to hide, rather than run which will keep them safe, but not necessarily feeling safe.  

~ Create a safe place before the fireworks even start by covering their crate with a blanket and placing previously worn clothes inside it.  A dark, cozy space with your scent will comfort them.  If you don’t use a crate, consider making them a makeshift “fort” or even use your bathtub with a thick, fuzzy blanket.  

~ Play some soothing, background noise to help drown out the fireworks.  Use low frequency brown or pink noise to help with relaxation and as a distraction.  Check out YouTube for dog-specific library of background noises by entering the type of noise or music you are looking for.  Studies have shown that classical music helps calm anxious pups. 

~ Telling your dog that they are safe in a calm and comforting tone and with a few gentle pets is letting them know that there is nothing to worry about.   (However, don’t tell them“ it’s okay”, because it’s not okay for them to feel unsafe).  

 30% of cat owners state their cats are afraid of fireworks, according to the latest PDSA Wellbeing Report. Here are a few tips for our feline family members: 

~  Keep them INSIDE!

~ Close the curtains & leave the lights on to hide the flashes

~ Put the TV or radio on to drown out the noises

~ Stick to normal routines and behave normally 

~ Offer comfort if they come looking for it

~ Do not try to pick them up when frightened, they prefer to control how they cope

~ Allow them to hide

~ Use pheromone diffusers, holistic remedies or veterinary prescribed medications if needed.

The best way to ease their stress is to be with them.  If your pet is having a really tough time, consider staying home with them.  Your presence is their greatest source of comfort. 

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