Summer is a beautiful season for both people and their pets, but the hot weather is accompanied by a number of hazards for pets.
"Many pets are frightened, even terrified of thunder and
lightening," says Al Hickey of the Humane Society of Canada
(HSC).
"These frightened animals can run off, get injured or cause
damage in their terrified state. Even if they quietly endure
these storms, they are still frightened and upset during these
displays."
To assist people in looking after their pets that are
frightened of storms and fireworks displays, the Humane Society
of Canada offers the following recommendations:
- Keep pets indoors well before, during and after (for
a while) storms.
-  Always ensure that pets have effective
identification such as personalized tags, microchips or
both.  Make sure that the pet's collar fits properly.
-  When outside with your pet, ensure that it cannot
run off.  Put the animal in a pet carrier or have it on a
leash.
-  Set up a "sanctuary" in your house where your pet
will be comfortable and safe. This might be a crate or carrier
in an inner room sheltered from the storm. Closing the drapes
may also help. Pet owners might also want to provide their pets
with a safe, favourite item or provide other distractions like
turning up the radio or television. If pet birds are affected
by storms, keep them in their cage with the cover on.
- Help pets deal with storms by taking their minds off of the activity. Try playing with the pet. Act normal or upbeat about the situation. Be sympathetic to their situation and reward good behaviour.