Colt and the Memorial Day Fireworks

We were just settling in after a long day this past Memorial Day. Colt kept us company as we did some yard work. We later grilled up some hot dogs and hamburgers. We only had a few people over and by evening we were ready for bed.

As we settled in, we heard it. There were the BOOMS and CRACKS of the fireworks. I wasn't aware of it until Colt squirmed from the bed to my lap. Then he started shaking. I knew making a big deal out of it would make things worse, so I just nonchalantly pet his back and continued reading my book. 

Unfortunately the fireworks kept coming and he jumped onto the floor. He was looking for a small space to curl up in. He finally decided to squeeze between my nightstand and under my bed. 

He calmed down shortly after that, but I hated to see the above look on his face. I did some reading about this. Aside from not making a big deal about it and to offer normal petting I discovered some products out there such as the Thunder Shirt. This wraps the dog tightly and gives him a sense of security. 

Other ways to help your pup:

• Act normal
• Distract them with a favorite toy
• Have a place they can go to  - lots of dogs like their crates
• Offer calming music
• Pull shades and curtains down and close the windows to help filter out the sounds

What are some ways you use to help your pet during anxious times? 

Updates

We have lots of updates on what I'm starting to call the "Imlay Farmland".  Between working, writing and training Colt, I've been pretty busy. We are also in the process of selling our current home and moving to a more agricultural area. Wish us luck. We're getting last minute drama. 

In the middle of all that, the animals have left us with no shortage of experiences. I wish I wrote them all down in a notepad so I would remember them all. I'll see what I can remember. 

Colt - Colt is our new Jack Russel Terrier we adopted in November shortly after Scooby passed. His story is on the previous blog post. Colt is very lovable and has a big personality.  He follows me everywhere and hates to be alone. He hates thunder and fireworks as well. He enjoys long walks and chasing the ball around. His favorite thing to do? He ADORES car rides. 

The new development for him is a cage. His anxiety was causing him to find and eat harmful things such as a half a bag of Hershey Kisses. We got him a large cage for when I am not home, so he can move around and change positions. He is adjusting well. Sometimes he goes in there on his own when he wants to rest or sleep. 

Luna - Luna had a trip to the vet about a week and a half ago. She started with a UTI and they also administered her vaccines. Her med for the UTI was a long lasting antibiotic shot. (Pet enthusiasts, what are your experiences and thoughts about this? I'm reading mixed reviews) 

Luna's latest adventure was to try and chase a yellow jacket that got into the house. She is one strong willed cat and refuses to accept a "No" from us pesky humans. I got rid of the bee, but not before snapping this pic:

Luna's now back to recovering from her illness, but starting to use the litter box inconsistently. We are hoping her spay surgery on Friday helps with this situation. I suspect this has something to do with our newest cat Leia.  

Leia - Who is Leia you ask? She is technically Luna's older sister. Yes, Leia and Luna are sisters...and they certainly fight like it. Leia's owner had to give her up and "Imlay Farmland" took her in 😉 This has been a difficult adjustment. Luna can be moody and egg on Leia. Leia had a rough time at her old home and can get aggressive to prevent other attacks. Leia is also due for her spaying this Friday, and we hope this will calm her down. 

Izzy, Oreo and Peanut have been sitting back and watching the show. 

What have you and your pets been up to lately?