Fireworks…….the celebratory tradition for the 4th of July that, though fun for most people, is horrifyingly scary to pets. In our neighborhood, knuckleheads like to shoot off fireworks every couple of hours at night both weeks before and after the 4th – which has turned Nora’s life into pure hell. She is TERRIFIED of the sound, and will hide in her crate or in a corner, shaking like a leaf. She also refuses to leave the house for walks, or even to relieve herself. It’s heartbreaking to watch, but all we can do is act normal as to not give her any additional confirmation that this is something to fear.
She has been taking both L-Theanine and Melatonin as supplements for her anxiety for a while now, but even that can’t take the edge off when the fireworks go off.
Enter George…..one of our cats, and Nora’s best buddy. Last night after nothing had worked to calm her anxiety, we saw George walk into her crate and lay down with her. A little while later her hyperventilating and fear seemed to have subsided a little. Still scary, but less so with friends there looking out for you….
Hoppy 4th of July to all of you….
make sure your pets stay indoors, safe and sheltered from the worst of the fireworks noise.
What a wonderful cat! How sweet that he was able to help Nora through the fireworks.
George is an amazing little boy. Every pup should have a cat of his or her own 😉
GEORGE!! You are magic!! Love heari g how you helped calm Nora! And LOVE the picture of you both!
How I wish fireworks were not part of the 4th celebration. Seems like taking a dog at a shelter for a walk would be a better way to celebrate “freedom”:-)
Extra treats for Nora AND George tonight! Don’t need no stinkin’ thundershirt when thunder buster George is around!! Guess “fireworks buster” is etter!
Hugs!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
We agree! Not to mention the millions spend on fireworks – how about giving that money to animal and human charities in stead??
How completely lovely! What an empathetic gesture from George and how special that Nora finds such comfort in the presence of her pal.
Lisa and Pofi
Animals have so much to teach us humans…
Yay for George, to look out for his canine friend! Animals are so intuitive. I wish I had a stress-relief buddy for my Westie Kodi….this holiday may just do him in.
Paula and Nitro
I think Kodi might need his own emotional support kitty 😉
How cool that your kitty comforts Nora!
He’s always had that effect on her…
Oh George, you are so special! What a great friend you are <3
Donna & Murphy
🙂