Surviving Summer Storms and Fireworks: Your Pet's Guide to Zen

Summer's arrival brings not just sunny days, but also thunderstorms and fireworks. Explosive sounds, including booms echoing from Quantico, can easily turn your typically calm pet into a panting, drooling, nervous wreck. Here are a few integrative techniques you can use to keep your furry friend calm during these stressful events.

Create a Safe Space

Create a designated quiet and cozy haven indoors where your pet can retreat during loud events, ideally away from windows and external walls to minimize noise. Provide their favorite bedding and toys for comfort, and play calming music or white noise to further drown out the booms. Remember, your pet can sense your anxiety, so it’s important to stay calm yourself.

Try a Thundershirt

Invest in a Thundershirt – these swaddling garments apply gentle, constant pressure to your pet's body, which can have a calming effect.

Use Acupressure Points for Calming

Acupressure, akin to acupuncture, can be applied to help soothe your pet Gently press and massage each point with your thumb in a circular motion for about 1-2 minutes. Here are three points to focus on:

• GV 20: On top of the head, directly in the middle between the ears.

• An-shen (Calm Spirit): A pair of points - Behind the head in the depression at the back of each ear base.  

• PC 6: On the inside of the front leg, 1/3 of the way up from the wrist. 

Work on Desensitization

Gradually expose your pet to recorded sounds of loud noises, thunderstorms, or fireworks at a very low volume, rewarding them for staying calm. Slowly increase the volume over time.

Consider Calming Treats/Supplements

There are numerous brands of calming treats on the market, most containing natural ingredients formulated to decrease anxiety. CBD has also gained popularity for its potential to reduce anxiety. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new supplement to ensure it’s appropriate for your pet.

Get Professional Help!

If your pet’s noise phobia is severe, consider consulting your veterinarian. They can provide tailored strategies and, if necessary, prescribe medication to help manage your pet’s anxiety. 

Managing noise phobia in pets requires patience and a multi-faceted, integrative approach. By implementing these methods, you can help your pet stay calm and safe during noisy times, ensuring a more peaceful summer for both of you!