How to Ease Pet Anxiety When the Fireworks Start

Dogs that are afraid of thunderstorms and fireworks may pant, drool, pace, whine, try to escape, cower or shake. They could have housetraining accidents or even destroy furniture. Dr. Frank Hoogeweg of Cedar Way Veterinary Clinic in New Lenox, said, address the issue as soon as it starts or it could get worse.

"It will help your dog if you stay with him during storms or fireworks and allow him to be in a space he is most comfortable in. Some dogs prefer their crate, while others prefer your lap or--believe it or not--the bathtub. An area that is a bit quieter is probably best."

Here are some tips:

• Drown out the noise with a fan, TV or radio

• Speak calmly and cheerfully to him.

• See if you can distract him with something fun like his favorite toy or treats.

• Try a calming message or petting session.

Remedies available in pet stores:   

Thunder Shirt: This is the same premise as swaddling your infant to keep them calm. The shirt is not a quick fix and taking time to train with the shirt on is very important. They are available at Tucker's Doggie Delights, 2011 Calistoga Drive in New Lenox; Chew On This Dog Barkery, 21 Ash St. in Frankfort, and at PetSmart, 21430 Wolf Road in Mokena.

DAP – Dog Appeasing Pheromone: This is a plug in that can take a few days to really work.

Rescue Remedy (Bach), as well as some other natural anti-anxiety products, is available over the counter or online. "These need to be given at least 1 hour before any noise is started. Once the anxiety starts, it is very difficult to calm your dog down. The product is available in many pet stores and at Whole Foods stores.

Various stress relieving plug-ins or candles – aromatherapy – can help minor stresses.

Benadryl and Melatonin have also been used. Contact your veterinarian for proper doses if you want to try them, he said.

Terry Richardson, owner of Tucker's Doggie Delights, also stocks Northern Biscuit Biosnax Calm and Licks Zen Formula. For details about the biscuits, visit the manufacturer's website. For more information about Licks, visit the manufacturer's website.

"Anti-anxiety prescription medications can be very helpful for many dogs that do not respond with the above products. Some are quick acting and others can take 2 weeks to build up. Again, ask your veterinarian if any of these products would be beneficial for your dog," according to Hoogeweg.

The dog should be evaluated by a veterinarian before any medication is given, he added. 

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