FOR THE COMFORT OF YOUR PETS
During year-end and June celebrations, dogs,
especially the most sensitive ones, are the most affected by the natural
excitement of this season, with the in and out of visits, with the noise of
fireworks.
Fireworks can frighten them, but their sudden behavior is more alarming to
pet owners. Panicked dogs, for example, have been seen shooting themselves
through doors and windows. They tend to run aimlessly and confusingly
because they do not understand what is happening and can cause harm to
others or themselves.
There are behavioral therapies (desensitization) and auxiliary medications
that assist in the emotional well-being of the pets and help them to get
used to the noises that cause them fear. But these treatments take at least
30 days for a satisfactory result.
There is also the possibility of using antidepressants, which is usually
much safer and better lasting effect than the tranquilizers and sedatives.
But remember to never give any medication to your pet without talking to
your vet before.
The owners should use common sense when they let their dogs participate in
the festivities. Some dogs love to follow firecrackers on the floor. Others
are traumatized by loud noises. Owners can help with tricks that can be as
simple as putting cotton in the ears of their pets to muffle the sound.
Here are some tips to keep your pets safe during the festivities:
1. Never leave pets alone outdoors, even if on a leash or behind a low fence.
Dogs, especially, can escape and get lost or injure themselves by chewing or
choking on their leashes. Keep small animals indoors.
2. Make sure that any sharp objects are removed from the vicinity.
3. Turn on the radio or TV and gradually increase the volume to distract and
get your pet used to a loud sound. That way it will not be frightened by the
intense and unexpected noise of fireworks.
4. Do not take the animals to see the fireworks.
5. Do not leave your pet in the car unattended.
6. Keep the animal leashed by the collar or in a cage for transport if it
has to leave.
7. Protect animals from children who may not understand that tossing "safe"
firecrackers or shaking sparks close to the animals can upset them.
8. Put a nameplate on your pet so that you may find it, if it gets lost.
9. Apply sedation in some dogs if necessary. Noise phobia can get worse as
the animal ages. A veterinarian can advise about giving a mild sedative or a
tranquilizer to calm the fears of an extremely stressed dog or cat.
10. Collect all left over firecrackers and sharp objects when the
festivities have finished.
11. Also do not forget to pick up the emergency phone number with the doctor
in case of a need emerges during the holidays, and of course, the
recommendation of a clinic that is open for 24 hours. Just to be sure!