Both my dogs are chipped. I would kick myself around the block if I lost a dog and hadn't chipped it. The chip is tiny, described to me as "the size of a grain of rice". It takes a second for the Vet to insert it, usually in the neck area.

I have found dogs that were chipped, but the owners had moved and hadn't updated their information. So please, if your dog is chipped, make sure the Microchip Company has your current telephone number and address.

I use a rubber mallet. Works every time!:1rotfl::1rotfl:

Seriously, Lavender spray works great! You can buy it at any pet supply store, petsmart, petco etc.... It comes under many names such as quiet time etc... I've been around dogs all my life and basically all you need to do is spray the Lavender around the dog, NOT DIRECTLY IN IT'S FACE and you will be amazed how calming it is. Also, if your doggie is not opposed to wearing shirts, they make a Thunder shirt for dogs to relieve anxiety during storms, traveling etc... The Thunder shirt can be purchased on line and the website is Thundershirt | The Best Dog Anxiety Treatment I personally have not used the Thunder shirt, but I've heard good things from friends who have. I hope this helps! :smiley:

I think a big part of keeping most animals calm is to stay calm yourself. They pick up on anxiety and mirror it. IMO animals want nothing more than to please us, so if you are anxious they'll join in,

I know this is going to sound crazy, try singing to them. It regulates your breathing and relaxes them. I sometimes (okay, ALWAYS) make up little songs with their name in it.

In addition to their stuff, give them something of yours-with your scent on it. The couple of times I had to kennel mine I left something of mine, like a sock or something. I figured their thought process would go something like
"Well, she desserted me, but I know she'll be back for this stinky sock."

thundershirts
 

thundershirts do work very well. Petco sells them for the same cost as online and you can take your dog in to be fitted. They do need to be snug so they can feel as if they are being held securely. If they work for your pet you can avoid medicating

I'm sure that thundershirts work for some dogs, but not ours. We put it on him and all I get from him is the old "stink eye". Of course, he's a beagle, and beagles are generally skeptical of any attempts at training. Some might call him untrainable; I prefer to refer to him as a skeptic.

The Thundershirt works great for our dog. I certainly recommend trying it. She's not nearly as hyper during storms as she used to be. Plus, last fall she was very sick and I kept it on her all the time. I think it was comforting to her when she did not feel well. I call it her "magic coat" and she comes running when it's time to put it on.

Unless the policy has changed, it comes with a 30 day money back guarantee wherever you buy it from so there is no harm in trying. I bought mine last summer at Paws Animal Hospital but now you can buy them all over including, I believe, Bed, Bath & Beyond so you can use a coupon if you have one.

Here's the website for more info:

Thundershirt | The Best Dog Anxiety Treatment

When I was big into playing softball I would play in Sunday morning and afternoon leagues. I would bring my dog and run her by tossing her favorite ball before and after the first game and then again after the late game. She would lie down for 2 day in a row all summer. By Wednesday though she wanted more. In the event you have not tried this yet, I would try exercise and lots of stops along the way before I ever used medication. Medication when all else fails I suppose.

I agree!
 

I really do think that pets pick up on your mood, and it helps to stay calm or sing to them. One time I was on the way to the airport and planning to drop off my dog and cat on the way. Halfway there I realized I forgot my suitcase and had to go back and get it, and got all flustered. They both started to howl and eventually they both threw up and pooped in their cages before we got to the airport (with windows open).

I do appreciate all the recommendations and sharing of personal experiences.

I have ordered from Amazon the Composure Chews (almost $10 less than at the vet). I personally do not like any narcotic type medication for myself as I do not like the loss of control that comes with it's use. Hence I will not try any of the medicating type alternatives.

We will be traveling again the end of the month. I will update how the chews work.

Thanx again.

btk