Urban fondly remembered
PET BULLETIN
‘Mews and Yips’ from the Central Aroostook Humane Society
By Gloria Towle
Board Member
William “Bill” Urban
We would like to take this opportunity to send our sincere condolences to the family and friends of William “Bill” Urban who passed away suddenly in July.
Bill was a longtime supporter of the Central Aroostook Humane Society. He spent quite a few years as a board member, enjoyed walking the shelter dogs, helping out when things needed to be done and was always around to lend a helping hand when we had our fundraisers. He had a huge heart when it came to animals; he will be missed!
Dealing with thunder
Even though here in Aroostook County we have experienced a beautiful summer with very few rainy days or storms, it doesn’t hurt to know some handy tips when the skies darken and the rolling thunder begins. My two cats are not fans of thunderstorms. Annie usually heads for under the bed and Willie cuddles close. Dog can have even a greater fear of the thunderstorms!
“Healthy Pets” with Dr. Karen Becker makes some suggestions when thunderstorms can strike fear in the heart of even the most normally laid back dog or cat. And what many pet parents don’t know is that it’s not just the loud clap of thunder that generates a fear response in phobic pets. Lightning, wind, rain, dark skies, changes in barometric pressure, and even odors can trigger a panicked reaction in susceptible dogs and cats.
Since dogs are more apt to look to their owner for help, a dog’s storm phobia symptoms are usually quite obvious. Common signs of phobia-related stress include dilated pupils, drooling, rapid heartbeat, panting, pacing, trembling, potty accidents and destructive behavior. Your cat, on the other hand, may simply scoot quietly under the bed or head for another protected spot in your home.
Storm phobia causes extreme anxiety and discomfort not only for four-legged companions, but also for human family members who feel helpless to ease their pet’s suffering. If your pet is afraid of storms, don’t lose hope. There are things you can do to help your furry friend remain calm when the weather outside is frightful.
Create a safe place where your pet can go to avoid the storm. If your companion is a cat, observe where she goes to “hide out” when she feels the need and, if possible, turn the area into a cozy little safe spot for her. For example, if she heads for a corner of your bedroom closet, consider placing a cat bed on one of those plastic storage tubs most of us have. This will turn her closet hideout into a warm, slightly elevated safe spot.
For dogs, your basement may be just the ticket, or alternatively, a room with sound-proofing wallboard and heavy window coverings. Your dog’s safe place should ideally have small covered windows or no windows so he can’t see the storm. In the space you set aside, add a solid-sided crate, and leave the door open. The crate should contain food, water, treats and toys. When you know a storm is approaching, turn on the lights in the room so lightning flashes will be less obvious.
Play calming music in their safe spot at a volume just loud enough to drown out distant thunder claps. Make sure to spend time playing with your dog in his safe room when it’s not storming, and then see if he’ll go there on his own when he senses a storm is on the way. Your pet should have access to his safe spot at all times, and especially when you’re not at home. Engaging your dog in a fun activity, such as a game or giving him a treat release toy or bone to chew on is a great way to distract your pet and divert his attention until the storm passes.
We have many wonderful animals that are at the shelter just waiting for a new loving home. Stop by for a visit or check us out on Petfinders.com or Facebook! Always be responsible, spay and neuter your pets!
