Prepare for the Summer Scaries

Summer is a season full of fun — backyard barbecues, long evening walks, and festive fireworks lighting up the sky. But for many dogs, summer also brings some pretty scary events too. Loud thunderstorms and explosive fireworks can turn an otherwise calm pup into a trembling ball of nerves. The combination of sudden booms, bright flashes, and unfamiliar vibrations can be overwhelming and disorienting, especially for pets who don’t understand what’s happening. If your dog tends to panic during storms or holidays like the Fourth of July, you’re not alone. Luckily, a little preparation can help your dog feel more calm and safe. 

Safe Place

• Create a safe space for your dog. Set up a quiet, comfortable area where they can retreat if they feel scared. This could be a cozy room with their favorite toys and blankets, or an open crate if that’s where they feel secure.
  

• Use background noise to mask the fireworks. A white noise machine or the TV can help drown out loud booms and reduce your dog’s stress. (We’ve heard a lot of dogs like watching Bluey).
  

• Close the curtains or blinds. Sudden flashes of light can be just as unsettling as the noise. Keeping windows covered can help limit visual triggers and create a calmer environment.

Distraction

Tug of war, treat scavenger hunt, new chewy toy - giving your pup something else to focus on can help them forget about what’s going on outside. Having a stash of toys and games ready all summer can help keep you ready for pop up storms and neighbors who got a hold on their own fireworks. 

Your Favorite Calming Products

Our Summer Survival kit includes three essential calming solutions  to help your dog overcome anxiety and stress during the summer months.

First, is our ThunderShirt® for Dogs - a cozy, snug-fitting shirt that applies gentle pressure to help calm and relax dogs who suffer from anxiety-triggering issues. Its patented design ensures a comfortable fit for your dog, making it perfect for use during long car rides or flights.

Second, is our ThunderEase® for Dogs Calming Spray - a natural, non-toxic spray that uses a blend of pheromones to create a calming environment for your dog. Simply spray it in your dog's favorite spot or in their crate before leaving the house to help reduce their anxiety. * There is also a patch on the ThunderShirt for the spray! (spray before you put onto your dog).

Third, our ThunderWunders® for Dogs Calming Chews - tasty treats that contain a blend of natural ingredients such as melatonin and chamomile to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety in dogs.

You can use these products separately, or combine them for help on those scary summer nights.

Good luck, and stay calm this summer!