Make plans for Pet Anxiety before the 4th
Tyson Beauchemin
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Pet owners are advised to start planning now for potential pet anxiety related to July 4th fireworks. It can take a while to get an appointment with a vet, or fill a specialized prescription.
If you are a new pet owners and your pet reacted poorly to recent the recent thunderstorms in Central Oregon, your pet might be bothered by fireworks. While medication might seem like an obvious answer to your pets’ anxiety, many veterinarians explore simpler solutions first.
Dr. Byron Maas, a veterinarian at the Bend Veterinary Clinic, emphasizes the importance of exploring options for his patients. “I mean, the ideal thing is to actually work through things that don’t require medication,” Dr. Maas said. “And so a lot of that is with consultation, just, you know, doing some experimentation, looking at some things that actually can be done. Now try them out. And then if they’re not working, then we can actually ramp up to the next thing.”
Dr. Maas also suggests providing dogs and cats with a dark, safe place to retreat when they are afraid. Ideally, this designated spot should be quiet for them. But fireworks can be loud, so pet owners may also consider using calming music or white noise to help mask the noise.
Additional calming options available include new treats designed for anxiety relief. There is also specialized milk that simulates a mother’s hormones, which can provide a calming effect for pets. Calming wraps or Anxiety jackets are effective as well.
In extreme cases, owners can choose to go on a trip with their pet, taking them far away from the fireworks, and enjoying some peace and quiet with them.
Finding what works right for you pet is a process, so it’s best if you start early.