Furry friends on the Fourth

     

Fireworks went on sale around here last weekend. That means Rolo, our shy little rescue dog, has already started to show signs of anxiety. We have no idea what her past included other than time on the streets of LA and some traumatic animal control situations thereafter. One firecracker went off mid-day and she ran from the sofa to my chair and burrowed into my shirt. Her shaking continued for close to a half hour. Nothing I could do seemed to console her. As you can see, this coming holiday is going to be a challenge for both of us.

The Fourth of July is quickly approaching. Although fireworks are beautiful to enjoy after a nice BBQ with your family and friends, animals may have a very different opinion of this day. If you have pets, now is the time to prepare in order to make it a safe and tolerable holiday for them. Dogs and cats come to mind first, but please take care of pets that may reside outdoors such as those in dog runs, rabbit hutches, or even chickens.

 Some of the best ways to make your pet feel more comfortable are easy and will cost you little to nothing. For example, dogs typically enjoy a den-like setting. Whether this be their crate, a blanket/chair fort you make, or a space under the bed where they like to hide - allow this. It's their own instinctual coping mechanism at work telling them to get safe and get out of the way. Cats may also hide under beds, sofas, or in some cases way back under the front porch. Some outdoor cats may run farther than usual and end up in unfamiliar territory during a "fight or flight" reaction. It's recommended to keep pets indoors on this day, even if a pet may be used to  roaming free or an above ground shelter in the back yard. Try to set up a contained indoor area, perhaps on linoleum, in the garage, or a make den space as mentioned above.  If you don't already have heavy curtains, a blanket can be added as a window covering to help block sound and keep the flashes to a minimum. Rabbits could be put in a cat carrier and kept indoors for the time being. Placing some hay from the hutch into the carrier will bring a familiar scent with them. For dogs and cats, socks or a t-shirt that's been worn by you (but not laundered yet) placed in the kennel/carrier/hiding spot is another comforting presence when their anxiety spikes.  Remember to provide all pets with water and snacks. Animals under stress tend to pant more and need additional hydration. Don't forget offering a longer walk or "potty break" followed by a special treat before placing them into a contained area. We don't want them to feel they are in trouble and being sent away.  A high-carb meal may also help them feel full and sleepy, such as how we feel after a big plate of mac & cheese! Horses are harder to prepare for Independence Day due to their size and potential to 'spook' at loud unannounced sounds. You might consider boarding them in a facility with an indoor arena or stalls if cost permits.

What if your pet is too fearful, aggressive or is known for nervous licking/digging behaviors? Medications can be used, but should be a last resort in my opinion. Introducing a sedative into a pet in these situations could lead them to feel more anxious. Temporary sedatives can make the pet groggy and feel heavy while unable to address their high anxiety. Imagine being too sleepy and unable move away from perceived danger; thus making you feel even more helpless and stressed. Of course, always consult with your veterinarian about your pet's issues and take their recommendations as needed. Feel free to combine any medication with the added comforts suggested earlier, too. If natural remedies are your thing: Bach's Rescue Remedy comes in a pet friendly formula, try using relaxing essential oils in a bath that day, or play rhythmic music to help drown out the cracks and pops. If you have a dog or cat that allows you to dress them, there is an amazing product called a Thunder Vest. It's made of tight spandex materials that hug your pet closely, applying some pressure to their core. It's like having a tight hug at all times. I've seen this approach used successfully in children with autism and other sensory development issues, as well as with a large fearful dog we met in Rolo's puppy skills class.

There has been some concern for reinforcing fearful behavior by comforting your dog during and directly after loud, scary sounds. For example, as noted in classical conditioning - when you pair a behavior with an event, it can become reinforced in the brain, making it difficult to redirect. These things can happen purposefully or unintentionally. Cuddling with your pet after she's shaking in a corner could precondition her to believe that any time something scares her you will be there. This can't always be the case and her natural coping skills could diminish over time in her over-reliance on you. But, there is the opposing theory that if you pair the loud sound with a treat or a favorite toy, she may learn to view the loud sounds as a precursor to something yummy. With my own pets I'll try to appear confident and unmoved by the noise; act "normal" and give affection as usual. Giving a scritch on the back or saying a hello to your pet if they come to sit by you if these are things you do on any other day. If you have or know others with dogs that are fine with firework noise, ask if they can be paired up with your dog that day. Pack instincts may spark and your dog could learn by example.

The Fourth of July can be a celebratory time for you and your family; one where your pet can socialize with everyone during a backyard picnic, but should be allowed his own safe space when evening falls. Preparing some personality related comforts specific to your pet in advance can make the night a success and help teach your pet trust in you as their human companion.