Tip and Games

Keep your pet safe and secure this Independence Day!

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Tips for Fireworks and Thunderstorms
 
The 4th of July is right around the corner…. a fun celebration of friends, BBQs and fireworks but it can be a time of terror for dogs here are some tips to help your friend.

  • Give your dog plenty of exercise – early morning physical exercise and mental stimulation exercise.
  • Keep your dog inside during the evening and make sure they have their tags and identification on them and if at all possible, with some human companionship. It is a good idea to have your pet microchipped as well.
  • Best of all, stay home and keep them busy (give them something to do) and distracted but if you can’t…..
  • Feed them before you leave and when you leave give your dog something to chew on – chewing helps to relax them.  A frozen and stuffed kong is perfect. See safe and effective treat toys HERE.
  • Make sure your dog has a safe place to “hide”.  If your dog is comfortable in their crate that is great and cover it with a sheet or cover.
  • If possible, keep the windows and blinds closed to restrict the light and sound.
  • Anxiety wraps (thundershirt) can be helpful for dogs that respond well to the gentle, consistent pressure. Check out some great thundershirts HERE.
  • White noise can help some dogs – run a box fan or play music quietly in the background.
  • Some dogs respond well to sound therapy.  Calm your Canine Companion Music Series by "Through a Dog’s Ear" Get your copy HERE.

 

DON’T TAKE YOUR PET TO THE FIREWORKS!!

Keep your dog mentally stimulated this summer with these fun Indoor Games!

Easy Games to Play Inside and Give Your Dog a Mental Workout!!

1. Treats in a Ball!
Cut up several strips of material ….old t-shirts, fleece strips, etc
Wrap treats in the strips and place them in the Hol-ee Ball
Roll it across the floor and watch your dog have fun!!!

Order your Hol-ee Ball Roller HERE

2. Hoops in Pool Noodles!

Go to the dollar store and pick up some hoops and pool noodles.
You can teach your dog to have fun going through hoops or continue your outdoor agility fun inside!

3. Wet Food Workout

You will need Silicone Mini Ice Cube Trays – Smear canned food, baby food or re-hydrated Honest Kitchen on clean ice cube trays and let your dog enjoy their meal. For even longer enjoyment – freeze it ! (Don’t leave your dog unattended, as some dogs may want to pick up the tray and leave with it ! and you don’t want them eating it )

4. Other easy games:

  • Put treats in the bottom of muffin tins and cover them with tennis balls.

  • Save your toilet paper rolls…..fill a box or food saver container with the rolls upright….sprinkle treats in some of the rolls and watch your dog have fun !

5. For fun nose games check out "Smellorama Nose Games" by Viviane Theby

Get your copy HERE!

 

Keep cool and have fun!