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CORTLANDT MANOR, N.Y. -- The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate independence with fireworks exploding in the sky, but for many pets its a time to run for cover.
These fearful behaviors, and often annoying whining that comes with them, can be tempered by a little planning ahead, said animal behaviorist and trainer West Artope.
Artope said to expose your pet to small doses of the sound it is afraid of by playing a tape of the noise.
Feed [your pet] every time he hears the sound, then he associates it with something more positive, he said.
The Fourth of July can also bring a lot of people. Experts said not over- stimulating your pet is important when managing anxious behaviors. Its also recommended to get the pet to as quiet a place as possible until it calms down.
Acting naturally and not coddling your dog are also important to break whining behaviors.
(Owners) comfort the dog when they see the dog is anxious, says Artope,
However, he said that may inadvertently be reinforcing the behavior. He said herbal anxiety supplements, such as Composure, a brand sold by the Cortlandt Animal Hospital, are another option.
For pets that are so afraid of these events that they hurt themselves or property, it is important to work with your veterinarian.
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