DAN'S PAPERS, July 4, 2008 Page 164 www.danshamptons.com
pet agree By Jenna Robbins
HOMELIFE
Celebrate Independence Day with Your Best Friend
ties. Loud noises, like fireworks, can frighten pets. They may exhibit unpredictable and out of character behavior. Even a well-mannered dog on a lead can bolt into traffic if frightened. So protect your dog or cat this coming Fourth of July, and plan ahead. Here are some SHOULD and SHOULD NOTS. –Refrain from taking your dog to fireworks displays. Noise, crowds and heat make a lousy cocktail for a dog day afternoon. Even worse would be taking your dog to a July 4 celebration and then leaving him or her in the car, alone, to deal with the noise and heat. –Don’t leave your dog outside with or without a leash or chain. Frightened dogs will do anything to escape and can injure themselves trying to run. –If you have plans somewhere other than your home, think about leaving your pet with a friend while you’re gone. Even indoors, a dog or cat can become overwhelmed with fear and anxiety resulting in
health issues, injuries and damage to your home. –Don’t give your dog or cat over the counter prescription drugs to relieve anxiety without talking to your vet. Instead… –Keep your pet indoors in a cool, comforting area where they feel safe. –Keep them with you as much as possible. A kennel with a nice blanket and some toys and chews with a light sheet thrown over it may relieve some stress. –Leave the T.V. on to muffle the noise outside. –Spend time doing something they really like. Playing ball or any distracting activity will help. –Make sure your pet is wearing ID tags. –Feed your dog before the celebration begins, as they are less likely to eat during the fireworks. If your dog is suffering from anxiety, there are a few effective training techniques to help your pet. Buy or make a recording of the noise that’s frightening to your pet, whether it be fireworks or a vacuum. Set aside 10 – 15 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day and play the recording on the lowest volume possible during a fun activity. Be as reassuring and comforting as possible. As the days progress, play the noise a little louder each time. This will help to condition your dog or cat to the sounds that frighten them. Your pets well-being depends on you. A little planning ahead can make the holiday a success for whole family. Have a wonderful Fourth of July weekend. Questions? thoughts? Email harleysangelsinc@comcast.net
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At my house, holiday fun always includes the dogs. And July 4 is no exception. For the barbeque, we have Kahuna and Wolf’s favorite grilled chicken breasts with sliced red peppers. Turkey burgers are always a hit with the Murphdogs. Wheat and gluten free pasta make a great doggie side dish. And for dessert? Vanilla yogurt, ices or sherbet. Playtime involves throwing around a ball. I found these fabulous red, white and blue Wiffle Balls – 6 for $5. You can’t beat that. They’re great for big and small dogs. Small dogs can pick the balls up by the little holes around the ball. The balls are manageable for a tiny pup, yet big enough to prevent a big dog from swallowing them. The light-weight balls bounce and float, which will save you from diving into the pool or the ocean to look for them. However, dogs can chew them if left unattended. Valentine tries to hoard as many as she can. The Fourth of July in the Hamptons is definitely party time. So if you’re taking your favorite canine with you, stop by Little Lucy’s at 91 Jobs Lane, Southampton (631-287-2352) and check out the adorable Red, White and Blue Sailor’s outfit, perfect for yachting in style or attending any July 4 festivities. You’ll also be “bow wowed” at her collection of doggy bandanas and personality tees. If it’s designer dog collars you’re looking for, then a visit to Jackie Rogers of Southampton and East Hampton is a must. All proceeds from these great “love knots” will be going to the Animal Rescue Fund. Summer is a great time to enjoy activities with your dog, especially during holidays. Think it through before you take your dog out for the weekend festivi-
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