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PrintSolving Summer Pet Anxiety
Comforting Tips for the “Dog Days” of Summer
For many people, summer fun means getting out in the yard, enjoying a concert in the park, traveling and ooowing and aaahhing over fireworks. Dogs are certainly willing companions on these outings, but things can take a sudden and unexpected turn… panic!
The weather may look calm when you head out on your journey, but if the weather turns to thunderstorms, dogs can get nervous. Loud thunder and shaking ground cause dogs to react unpredictably. And research shows that the bright flash of light may even be perceived by dogs as painful! Fireworks can cause the same fear and pain reaction. Some frightened souls may dart away and become lost or run out in front of cars, sometimes with a tragic outcome. Every year dogs end up needing emergency care for broken bones, lacerations or dehydration that occurs when we take our pets along for these “fun” events unwisely or unprepared.
One way to help make outings safer is preparation. Check the weather report before planning a long hike and avoid threatening weather. As always, prevent your beloved dog from getting into peril by having him remain on leash whenever possible.
Medications may be right for pets that become anxious easily or are known to have storm or fireworks anxiety. These medications can reduce the severity of anxiety but do not take away all of the fear. Some of these prescriptions are very similar to medicines used for anxiety disorders in people, but don’t be tempted to give some of your own. Your pet’s health and knowledge of drug interactions
are very important factors for your veterinarian to consider when prescribing the right remedy.
What about summer travels with your dog or cat? Whether you are considering a short distance “stay-cation” or a long trip by car or plane, pets can get anxious in those situations, too. Anti-anxiety medications may be necessary for those pets who pant themselves into a tizzy. Others can benefit from mild sedatives designed to help a pet to snooze through the unsettling parts of travel. And if your pet is prone to nausea or vomiting on trips, veterinarians even have medications that help with motion sickness – without causing drowsiness!
If your travels allow you lots of time for preparation, consider getting your pet used to some of the alarming issues. I like to say “if you can’t get rid of the ‘bad,’ you have to bury it in a lot of good.” Desensitizing pets to thunder, loud noises and nervousness can do this. It would be oversimplified for me to say that a treat or extra attention can make scary situations acceptable for your nervous pet, but that is the direction that this time consuming approach leads. Avoiding medications and creating a less anxious pet are just two of the reasons for trying this behavioral approach to managing anxiety. Your veterinarian can suggest specific steps to take or may connect you with a behavior specialist.
It is fair to say that some pets simply shouldn’t be put in these emotion-threatening situations. Sometimes, it is wiser to simply leave our pets at home or in the care of someone responsible. Avoiding anxious situations may be the best calming tool you have!
Have a safe and happy summer with your pets!
