MESSAGES FOR PETS WHO DON'T LIKE LOUD NOISES OUTSIDE

My In-The-Moment Message for July is all about supporting pets through the noises 4th celebrations but will help anyone who's pet does not like outside loud noise like thunder as well. I recently learned that more pets go missing on the 4th of July than any other day of the year. It's important to be prepared and take precautions to support your pet no matter what their level of anxiousness around the noisy 4th celebration is. Preparedness  might mean making quieter plans, having herbal calming treats/pills, a thunder shirt, etc.and should always include communication.

While I understand some anxieties are so bad they can not be fixed with a few messages, communication between you and your is always a win because it teaches your animal companion to look to you for information. No matter what your animals level of anxiety is around loud noises like storms or fireworks here are my in-the-moment messages for July will support you. 

The first message comes before the action. You all want to send a preliminary message to let you companion know what's up. You might say, "I know you don't like loud noise I want you to know its going to be loud out side tonight at dark for a few hours." Or if you have a more specific time, get as specific as you can. Send a reminder message at the time for the loud event gets closer. If you want you can add on a second message like. "I want you to know your safe, or I have set up a safe hiding space for you, or I'm going to be giving you extra treats to help you stay as calm as you can." What ever the case may be just give a short explanation. 

During the "action" you may want to send reassuring messages about how much longer the noise is expected to continue. No matter, what the level of upset is do this. Even if your dog isn't very upset at all. Because again, this is an opportunity to teach your companion to look to you for information and learn to trust what you say. If your dog is having a sever reaction do the best you can to manage in all the ways you know how, and include these communications. Your pet will here you especially if you begin the preliminary messaging before they get slip in to a fight or flight response where they are reacting and not able to consciously connect with you.

When communicating during a stressful time for your pet it is best to be very matter of fact. Being harsh or being overly comforting is seen from your animal's point of view as you being weak or not in control. They can easily become confuse about who if anyone around is able to lead them through the noisy/scary event. Keep your messages during this time short and to the point and your messages will be revived loud and clear every time.  

Happy Chatting!