Fireworks and thunderstorm season is here and while you may enjoy both, the racket can be downright terrifying for your dog. If your pet trembles, whines, drools, or clings to you when there’s loud noises, he or she likely suffers from a condition known as noise aversion.

There are several things you can do to help your pet get through these events.

Turn on soothing music to dull the noise or try distracting your dog with games and toys. You’ll want to avoid punishment, praise, or comforting as these actions will reinforce the reaction.

If behavior modification and distraction aren’t enough, there are other remedies to try including anti-anxiety medications and sedatives, but you’ll need to see a full-service animal hospital for those solutions.

Above all, it’s important to make sure your pet is microchipped and that the information is current, as more pets escape and go missing and wind up at shelters on July 4th and 5th than at any other time during the year. If that happens, a microchip will significantly increase the chance that your friend will be returned to you.

Microchipping your pet is painless, inexpensive, and offered seven days a week at our clinic inside Walmart. Come see us to help ensure your pet’s safety before the big bang!