How marijuana is keeping your pup from freaking out about the fireworks

Most Americans love the pomp, circumstance, and loud blasts of Independence Day. Morning parades. Afternoon beach time barbecues. And the ooh and foreboding of fireworks after the sun goes down. But for your canine lover, it’s one of the worst days of the year.

According to national statistics from PetAmberAlert.com, pet control facilities saw a 30 percent increase in missing pets between July 4th and July 6th, with July 5th being one of the busiest days for shelters. This vacation sucks for dogs.

Photo by Brina Blum via Unsplash

More and more veterinarians are recommending high-CBD dog treats as a way to keep your pet relaxed and less anxious. While veterinarians are divided on the efficacy of cannabis for pets because research into cannabis veterinary pharmacology is limited, anecdotal reports suggest that CBD has calming benefits for some pets.

The best way to give cannabis to your pet is to use a CBD oil. An all-natural quality oil contains components that help dogs feel more comfortable and reduce anxiety.

Treats infused with CBD won’t get pets high because they don’t contain THC, the psychoactive ingredient found in cannabis. Keep THC away from your pets.

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Veterinarians suggest the following basic tips to keep your pooch calm (even if you don’t have any CBD-infused treats):

• Stay indoors: Try to keep your pet indoors as often as possible. Ideally, someone will stay at home with your pet.
• Make them feel safe: Comfort your pets with pats, hugs, talk to them in a soothing voice, give them a treat and stay around if possible. Make sure they have access to their box or “safe place”.
• Avoid the noise. Try to drown out the sounds of the fireworks as much as possible by closing windows, playing music, or turning on the TV.
• Act normal. Your pet picks up clues about your actions and those of your family. Go about your normal routine as much as possible, talking and playing with your pet as usual.