While we?’d all welcome a steady rain these days, summer storms-with their lightning, thunder and downpours - can be frightening to family pets. The Arizona Humane Society reminds pet owners to protect pets during storms. These tips will help:
1. Keep pets indoors. If necessary, confine pets to a bathroom or other ?“safe haven?” within the home.
2. Make sure pets have current I.D. all the time. If they are outside when a storm hits, they may be spooked by thunder and lightning, and might jump or dig out of the yard. Also-many homes suffer storm damage: if heavy wind blows down a fence/wall or blows open a gate, your dog could take off!
3. Distract your pets during loud storms. Play with their favorite toys and have fun with them indoors. They will focus more on you than the storm and are likely to be less fearful.
4. If your pet just can?’t cope, talk to your veterinarian about prescription medications.
5. If your dog runs away during a storm, begin a diligent search! Visit the AZ Humane Society. You can also visit the PETS 911 website at www.l888pets9ll.org. . . ☺