Keeping Pets Calm During Stressful Events

Loud sounds can be distressing to our pets. Thunderstorms, heavy rain and high winds, and fireworks, construction activity can be distressing to pets. During certain times of year, like the summer severe weather like thunderstorms and fireworks can be a common occurrence. For July 4^th, Many dogs and cats are quite fearful of these loud noises, and some dogs become so nervous that they hide, shake, soil the home and become destructive to themselves or their abodes. Cats tend to hide and isolate themselves out of fear.

Our pets sense our energy and emotions, so calm projections offer comfort. It is a good practice to reassure our pets, but not to the extent of coddling, lest we encourage fearful behavior for the sake of receiving affection or a reward. Be confident, relaxed and minimize the disturbances outside.

Chewing can helps dogs to expend energy. Get some bones or a Kong dog toy made of hard rubber and designed for different chewing strengths, and stuff them with peanut butter or the dog’s favorite snack. Music is also soothing to the savage beast. Canine music therapy can help provide balance. Get a copy of Through a Dogs Ear, clinically tested music to calm dogs (and cats) and reduce anxiety, which has been created in passive hearing mode, rather than active listening. Passive hearing techniques facilitate relaxation. Sound is a potent energy that is not to be taken for granted – it has profound effects on all species.

Pure, medical-grade essential oils can also help pets endure storms. Start applying and diffusing essential oils hours prior to the onset of a storm or a few days prior to fireworks. For mildly anxious dogs and cats, apply and diffuse a restful blend or lavender and a grounding blend. Moderately nervous pets may benefit from the addition of frankincense and copaiba or vetiver. Dogs that are severely afflicted may benefit from oral preparations of copaiba and a restful blend.

In the most extreme cases, prescription medication may be needed, as well, although most good veterinarians will try to avoid them if possible.

Dr. Mia K. Frezzo is an integrative veterinarian and owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights, a member of the doTERRA International Veterinary Advisory Board and co-author of Spoil Your Pet: A Practical Guide to Using Essential Oils for Dogs and Cats. For more information, email Info@VetInHeights.com or visit VetInHeights.com.