Mom took me to the vet yesterday. I stayed in the car when she stopped to talk to a neighbor. The kids were lighting fireworks but it didn’t bother me because I’m deaf.
My hearing siblings are noise-sensitive to fireworks and thunderstorms. Mom has heard stories about furkids going crazy during the fourth of July. Here are a few tips:
- Put collars and tags on furkids in case they slip out the door while looking for a place to get away from the noise.
- Consider trying a thundershirt. There is a 45 day guarantee http://www.thundershirt.com/OurGuarantee.aspx. They work for both of my hearing siblings. Look for them at pet stores, my vet even sells them.
- Leave the TV/radio and lights on to drown out the noise.
- Close the curtains and turn on the lights to hide the sight of the fireworks/lightning.
- Keep furkids busy with treat-filled kongs, bully sticks, or deer antlers.
Find a “safe place” for them to go during thunderstorms like a basement bathroom where it’s quieter. Put a bed/kennel there, turn on radio/lights and give them the kong/bully stick. It’s good practice to prepare for severe weather.
ASPCA provides more tips http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-articles/fear-of-noises.
My Gotcha Day is July 3. I came home in time for Independence Day. The holiday with all the noise that scares most dogs, did not bother me. Mom had a party for me. We wish you a happy and SAFE Independence Day with your furkids!
