The Maine Potato Blossom Festival is just around the corner, and once again the Central Aroostook Humane Society will host its Household Pet Show.
Community members can show off their amazing furry family members on Tuesday, July 15, rain or shine. This year’s event is in memory of Marcia Reed, who founded the pet show many years ago.
Registration starts at 5:15, and at 6 p.m. the fun begins at the gazebo at Fields Lane on Main Street. The donation of $5 per entry will benefit the Central Aroostook Humane Society. We hope to see you there.
Here in Aroostook County we have experienced a pretty rainy summer so far. Although we have enjoyed some nice warm days, just the other day there was a pretty crazy storm that passed through that brought torrential rain, hail and one huge crack of thunder and lightning that certainly got my attention. It doesn’t hurt to know some handy tips when the skies darken and the rolling thunder begins.
My two previous kitties were definitely not fans of thunderstorms. One would head for under the bed and the other would cuddle close. Dogs can have an even greater fear of the thunderstorms.
“Thunderstorms can strike fear in the heart of even the most normally laid-back dog or cat. And what many pet parents don’t know is that it’s not just the loud clap of thunder that generates a fear response in phobic pets. Lightning, wind, rain, dark skies, changes in barometric pressure, and even odors can trigger a panicked reaction in susceptible dogs and cats,” said Dr. Karen Becker of Healthy Pets.
Here at the Central Aroostook Humane Society, we suggest creating a safe place where your pet can go to avoid the storm.
If your companion is a cat, observe where she goes to “hide out” when she feels the need, and if possible, turn the area into a cozy little safe spot for her. For example, if she heads for a corner of your bedroom closet, consider placing a cat bed on one of those plastic storage tubs most of us have. This will turn her closet hideout into a warm, slightly elevated safe spot.
For dogs, your basement may be just the ticket, or alternatively, a room with sound-proofing wallboard and heavy window coverings. Your dog’s safe place should ideally have small covered windows or no windows so he can’t see the storm. In the space you set aside, add a solid-sided crate and leave the door open. The crate should contain food, water, treats and toys.
When you know a storm is approaching, turn on the lights in the room so lightning flashes will be less obvious. Play calming music at a volume just loud enough to drown out distant thunderclaps. Make sure to spend time playing with your dog in his safe room when it’s not storming, and then see if he’ll go there on his own when he senses a storm is on the way.
Your pet should have access to that safe spot at all times, and especially when you’re not at home. Engaging your dog with fun things like games, a treat release toy or bone to chew on is a great way to distract him and divert his attention until the storm passes.
We have many wonderful animals that are at the shelter just waiting for a new loving home. Stop by for a visit at 210 Cross Street, Presque Isle.
We are open Tuesdays from 12 to 4 p.m., and Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closing for lunch from 12 to 12:30 p.m.
Check us out on Facebook. And always be responsible: spay and neuter your pets.
Gloria J. Towle is on the Central Aroostook Humane Society Board of Directors.
