As we approach the 4th of July holiday, here are a few tips (updated daily) to help your pet stay safe & happy:
- The smoke from all the fires in CA is harmful to the health of people & pets. If the air quality forecast is “unhealthy for sensitive groups”, consider your pet included. Follow all the recommendations & health advisories with your pet, too. Read about the latest on the local air quality and the fires, statewide. Thanks so much to those who are risking their lives fighting the fires. Our hearts go out to folks who have lost homes & pets to the fires. Check with the American Red Cross for tips on wildfire safety and how you can donate to help those in need.
- This weekend is the Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic. Get up early & enjoy the event! But keep in mind that the sound of a hot air balloon’s burners can frighten pets. If you notice your dog barking at or retreating from the sight/sound of a hot air balloon, distract Pup with play. Don’t try to coddle or soothe Pup’s anxiety away, as that will likely intensify his fear. Adopt a playful attitude – it’s contagious to your dog! A special chewy, a fetch game, a puzzle toy, or play with another dog can help. If Pup’s too nervous to play or eat, try the same approach indoors. Bring him into a quiet interior room; close windows to block out balloon sounds; and turn on the TV or soothing music for a familiar background sound. Some dogs need more activity to overcome fears, like going for a run with you. But never force your pet to do anything he doesn’t want to do when he’s nervous – this can compound anxieties. For more help with your pet’s anxieties, contact Critter Consulting. (If your pet panics to the point of harming himself, contact your vet first.) Be proactive to give your pet relief as quickly as possible!
- Fourth of July fireworks also panic many pets. If your pet is scared of fireworks, or you don’t know how he will react to them, don’t leave him outside or home alone that day or night. Take the above measures ahead of time to relax Pup. (Remember that your pet can hear the fireworks start before you can, and fireworks begin before the 4th!) The ASPCA offers more 4th of July safety tips.
© 2008 CritterConsulting