The 4th is a time for fun, family and fireworks – and a ruff one for pets!

The 4th of July is a huge celebration with bbqs, parties, drinks, red/white/blue clothing and fireworks. While most people enjoy the 4th, dogs, cats and other pets find it upsetting. In a study, it is estimated that 45 percent of dogs show signs of fear when they hear fireworks, and a New Zealand survey recorded 79 percent of horses as either anxious or very anxious around fireworks. When it comes to fireworks and pets, can marijuana or cbd help?

According to PetAmberAlert.com, animal control facilities experience a 30% increase in missing pets between July 4 and 6, with July 5 being one of the busiest days for shelters.  The poor things are frightened by the loud, unpredictable booms.

CBD is a big yes, and cannabis more of a no. It is highly discouraged to give pets marijuana due to the THC. Pets have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains, which means the effects of cannabis and THC are more dramatic and potentially more toxic when compared to humans.

CBD doesn’t have THC and can provide relief without the high.  A CBD for pets is recommend based on the dosage being for a pet size rather than a person size.

A method of medicating your pet with cannabis is by using a CBD oil and rubbing into their ears. CBD-infused treats do not get pets high, but can relief stress, but they need to consume it at least 40 minutes before the start of the fireworks/noise.

RELATED: Senior Dog’s Vision And Motor Control Restored Through Marijuana

The following general suggestions are good for pets.

• Stay inside: Try to keep your pet indoors at all times as much as possible. Ideally, someone stays home with your pet.
• Make them feel safe: Comfort your pets with petting, hugging, talking to them in a soothing voice, providing a treat and staying nearby if possible. Make sure they can access their crate or “safe place.”
• Avoid the noise. Try to drown out the fireworks sounds as much as possible by closing windows, playing music or turning on the TV.
• Act normal. Your pet takes cues from your and your family’s actions. Go about your normal routine as much as possible, talking and playing with your pet as usual.

Hopefully everyone in your family this year will have a great 4th!