Dog of the Month: Bailey

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This month Bailey can stop in to get a FREE Bichon Bar!

How can your dog be the dog of the month? Stop in with a picture (be sure we put the name on the picture) so that your dog can be entered for the monthly drawing.

Help Fido Weather the Storm

It’s severe weather season and if you have a pet that hates thunderstorms you should keep an eye on the forecast, because if you know thunder is coming you can take some action beforehand to help your pet weather the storm.

Severe weather actually effects pets differently than fireworks. In addition to loud thunder, hail, and bright flashes of lightening, animals sense changes in barometric pressure. So, your pet can become increasingly more anxious as he senses a storm approaching, and by the time the weather hits he can be downright frantic. What can you do?

• One herbal supplement that is actually safe for people too, is called Relieve de Stress.

• Calming pheromones like Comfort Zone can also help. This comes in a spray or a plug in. The spray can be applied directly to bedding to help calm your pet. The plug in is nice if storms are expected because it can be plugged in any time (even before work) and left. Plug these in near the area your dog “holes up” when there are storms. (can be found at the Nebraska Humane Society)

• If he’s comfortable in his crate put it in a quiet interior room with no windows.

• Give him his bed, favorite toys, maybe even a special treat like a peanut butter kong.

• Turn on the TV, a fan, or radio to muffle outside noise and distract your pet and use the Comfort Zone in here.

Signs your pet is stressed include, trembling, drooling, howling or barking, hiding, frantic activity like digging, running or pacing. If these get excessive and you’re worried he’ll hurt himself or you, consult with your veterinarian who may prescribe medication to get your pet through the worst.

Keep in mind that your pet has no idea why the loud noises are occurring. The key is to make your pet feel as safe as possible, so let him have access to whatever room, closet, or corner makes him feel safe. (One dog we know weathers storms in the bathtub—the cool tile seems to soothe her.) That way everyone will be a little less stressed!--The Nebraska Humane Society