Air & Water Show Calming Tips

Friends and Neighbors,

 The 2024 Chicago Air & Water Show kicks off this weekend, but the jets are already making their presence felt in the city today! The noise from the aircrafts can be heard far beyond just the lakefront. Pets across the city are likely already noticing the piercing sounds.

💡 If your pet is anxious or skittish, we recommend keeping them at home while the jets are circling. Keep walks and potty breaks as short as possible.

Chicago skyline during the air and water show with dogs covering their ears because it's loud.

✈️ Unfortunately, there isn’t a ton we can do to stifle the intense noise/vibrations the jets cause, but we’ve put together some quick tips to help manage noise anxiety: 


  • Use household remedies to mask the noise. Loud fans, playing music, or leaving the TV on can help. Bring out the crate or carrier and cover the top (while leaving the door open,) with blankets so your pet can enter and exit as they please.  

  •  Keep your pet in an interior room away from windows to create a comforting environment Any space that can mimic a sound-diffused womb is the way to go! 

  •  Consider purchasing over-the-counter anti-anxiety products like Thundershirts, Feliway for cats or Adaptil for dogs. 

  •  Limit your pet’s outdoor time this weekend. Restrict walks to just potty breaks, and make sure they are wearing a harness in addition to their leash. Avoid retractable leashes, which can snap easily in a moment of panic. Check out our DIY enrichment article for lots of at-home ideas for keeping them busy at home. 

  • Spatial awareness is key. If you live in a populated building or on a busy street, make sure to keep your pet close to you as you walk. Peek out the door and down the hallway before entering. Senses for all of us are heightened with the planes overhead. Even the coolest of cucumbers can get spooked!


📲 If your pet might benefit from prescribed, anti-anxiety medication, contact us. Our team will help guide you with next steps on how to best set your pet up for success this weekend.

A black cat flying a plane.

We hope you found these tips useful and that they help you keep your pet happy and healthy! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. We are always here for you and your pets.

Sincerely,

The BLVD Team

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