Thunderstorms, Fireworks and Pets

Author: Amanda   Date Posted:30 October 2015 

PETS, THUNDERSTORMS & FIREWORKS

With summer fast approaching, this means the start of the storm season in Australia.    The loud sounds of thunder and lightening cracks can be sounds that cause extreme anxiety and stress in many dogs, cats and small animals.  Dogs and cats’ sense of smell and hearing is so much more sensitive to ours it is no wonder the sound of heavy booms and claps can be terrifying for them.

As we bring in the New Year we all love to see the fireworks displayed in the sky, but to our furry friends this can be terrifying.  Loud sounds from the fireworks can also cause anxiety and stress, just like the sounds of the thunderstorms. With so many animals having a fear of thunderstorms and loud noises, many escape, display destructive behaviour and injure themselves in a frantic bid to escape the noise. 

It is important to prepare for the storm season and fireworks  by making sure your fencing is secure so that your pet cannot escape.  Having in place safety measures and tools to lessen their fear and anxiety can go along way in ensuring this time of year is not stressful for yourself or your pets.

 

Here are some tips to help minimise stress for your pets:

  • Keep a check of the weather to see when thunderstorms are predicted.  If you know a storm is coming it makes it easy to prepare you yard and house so your pet is kept in a safe and sound proof location.
  • This is the same as New Years Eve - we all know that Fireworks occur around Australia and they may well be close to your home.  Be prepared.  Reme
  • mber cat's and dog's hearing is alot more sensitive then ours!
  • Before an anticipated storm, walk your dog to give them the opportunity to toilet.
  • If possible, be at home with your pet during this time.  Dogs and cats can be a lot more fearful if left alone during a thunderstorm or fireworks.  If you can’t be there, have someone care for them.
  • Keep your pet indoors in a safe, sound-proof and comfortable environment.  This will decrease their chances of seeing and smelling the storm.  A dog left outside during a storm can cause considerable damage not only to your fence and yard, but also to themselves.  Dogs have been known to jump through windows, dig frantically injuring their nails and paws, and many dogs end up escaping and finding their way onto busy roads ending in tragedy.
  • Provide you pet with a safe ‘den’ to retreat to – a crate or cage with a comfy blanket.
  • Provide lots of spaces for your cat to hide and ensure they have access to food, water and a litter tray at all times.
  • Leaving the radio or TV on can mask out some of the sounds outside.
  • Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing an id tag in the unfortunate occurrence they escape.
  • Place the cages and hutches of small animals and birds in protected areas. 
  • Cover bird cages with a large blanket to keep large flashes out and take out any toys or perches that they may get caught up in if they do panic.
  • Hutches for small animals may need to be covered with tarps if they cannot be moved.
  • Do not punish your pet!  This will only make your pet more distressed and could possibly increase their fears.

 

THUNDERSHIRTS

The Thundershirts patented design applies a gentle, constant pressure to a dog or cat’s torso, providing a safe, effective and drug-free solution for relieving anxiety.  Pressure has been used successfully for many years for both animals and humans.

 

USING PHEREMONES

Dog pheromones – called Adaptil can have a calming effect on dogs in stressful situations.  Adaptil comes in the form of a diffuser, which is plugged into a power point or a collar.  These both have been shown to keep your dog calm and comforted during stressful times.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Using a Feliway diffuser in a room will help with reducing the stress cats may feel with the unexpected noise.  These diffusers release a pheromone that gives cats a feeling of peace and calm and reduce the stress your cat experiences.

It is a good idea to start using these products at least 24 hours before an anticipated storm and a week after. These products last approximately 4 weeks and you should ensure you keep them on at all times.

For more information visit: www.adaptil.com.au and www.feliway.com.au

 

DRUG-FREE REMEDIES

Homeopet Storm Stress is an all-natural remedy, given orally to promote a sense of calm and relieve stress in pets. In Australia the leading behavioural Veterinarians Dr Seskel, Dr Ley, Dr Blackman and Charles Sturt University conducted major triple blinded trials that show significant results in reducing fear in pets during thunderstorms.  It is specifically designed as a fast-acting remedy to calm dogs in situations with loud noises - such as thunderstorms and fireworks.  This is recommended over just the Homeopet Anxiety in these situations as a fast acting remedy is best.

Vetalogica Feline Tranquil

Vetalogica Canine Tranquil

Calm Drops 

 

DESENSITISATION

For pets that really struggle during these times, desensitisation may help.  This is possible through the use of recordings of the sounds of storms, Firecrackers, nail guns and other scary sounds.  The CD explains how to  implement the training steps to gradually desensitise your pet to the sound.  Dr Cam Day, a Veterinary Behaviourist has released an excellent CD called ‘Frightful Noises Audio CD’.   This CD provides pet owners with comprehensive information covering this topic to help you and your pet.


Solving this fear in pets can be a very complex and difficult problem.  Consulting with your veterinarian on this problem is also recommended.

 

Chuck it has invented more ways to play with your pet! These toys take interaction to the next level. Cherish the animal to human bond that you will develop while playing with these interactive and fetch toys. Whether your dog likes toys that fly, bounce, float, or tumble there is a toy for everyone. ...

Comfortis is a leading flea medication for dogs and cats. It starts killing fleas within 30 minutes! Comfortis is trusted by Vets and pet parents all over the world for the safety of their pets. ...

Comfortis PLUS is an advancement in the protection of our pets. Comfortis plus kills fleas within 30 minutes PLUS it protects against worms and the deadly heartworm. One of the best things about Comfortis plus is that it is a tablet so you can bath and go swimming with your dog without a worry! ...

Cowboy Magic is an absolute staple in tack boxes all around the world. With grooming shampoos, detanglers and finishing sprays, these products are perfect for keeping your horse in top top condition whether in the show ring or in the paddock! A trusted, home grown brand you cannot go wrong with Cowboy Magic. ...

DGG provide our pets with an extensive range of beautifully made coats and sweaters. Your beloved pet is a member of the family therfore they should be looked after in the colder months just like we are. Take a look at our huge range of DGG coats and sweaters for your fur baby! ...

Drontal kills the most important types of worms in Australia including roundworm, hookworm, whipworm and tapeworm in either a simple chewable or tablet! Used by pet owners around the world, Drontal is a brand that is known and trusted. ...

Endogard is an extremely palatable allwormer for dogs and cats! In a tasty liver flavoured chew it is easy to administer to your pets. It treats and controls; roundworm, hookworm, whipworm and tapeworm. ...

Equi-Prene is one of the leading horse gear suppliers in Australia. The quality products ensure you get your value for money as well as ultimately keeping you and your horse safe at all times. Take a look at what we have to offer! ...

Equine pure delights are a delicious healthy treat for horses. They are easy to chew and great for any occasion! Most importantly Pure delights are made with no nasties which is why horse lovers in Australia are obsessed with this product! ...

Eukanuba is a pet food brand that insists on only using high quality ingredients, with animal based protein at the core of their products. Before you even open a bag of Eukanuba you know that it has been tested up to 120 times to ensure the quality is exemplary. ...

Fidos Pet products are Australian made for a healthy and happy pet. Fido's are a Brisbane based company dedicated to developing exceptional animal grooming and health products for your furry friend. Take a look at our huge range! ...

Flexi are the original innovators of the retractable leash. They are packed with innovative ideas and high quality technologies that ensure only the best for your pet. Perfect for when walking in an open area then through busy streets so you can adjust how much run your dog gets! ...

The easiest deshedding tool for your pets. Ordinary deshedders have sharp metal blades that can cut and pull at your dogs fur. The Foolee consists of a plastic comb with smooth rounded teeth so there is no risk of hurting your pets. Take a look! ...

Frontline pet care is protection that you can trust. With a range of product, frontline will help you keep your pet safe from fleas and ticks to make sure your pets stay happy and healthy. ...

GPA has a well earned reputation for being one of the leading manufacturers in riding helmets across the world. These helmets meet high industry standards and are used by some of the top competitors in a variety of disciplines. Here at The Vet Shed, many of us ride or have ridden in GPA helmets and recommend them to everyone! ...

Greenies are the ultimate dental treat for your pooch. Greenies freshen stinky pet breath, are easy to digest, clean teeth and gums while chewing and to top it off they are made with all natural ingredients. Just give daily and keep your pets dental health in tip top condition. ...

Gripsoft make quality, easy to use brushes and combs for your pets. Whether you need a deshedding brush, need to get those knots out or just need a brush for day to day grooming there is a brush for all different coat types! ...

Protect your dog with the number 1 choice of Vets. One bite from a mosquito can cause heartworm disease - so you need to protect your dog and Heartgard does just that. Heartgard is the only real beef chew that prevents heartworm disease and treats and controls pre existing hookworm and roundworm infestations. ...

Hill's pet nutrition has been transforming the lives of pets and pet owners for generations. With their mission to help and enrich the special relationships between pets and their owners, Hill's is a perfect choice for your pet. There is a huge range of Hill's foods to choose from, so take a look! Don't hesitate to ask us if you have any questions. ...

Huds and Toke is an Australian pet treat company that makes high quality delicious goodies for your pets! These treats are all natural and are great for a sweet reward. ...

Leave a comment

Comments have to be approved before showing up