What's all that noise!

Some people celebrate the Fourth of July with hot dogs and sparklers. I generally celebrate it by trying to keep my dog from clawing out a den under my bathtub.

Dogs with noise phobias suffer terribly during thunderstorm or fireworks. The whining, trembling, drooling, pacing, panting, hiding—these are all signs of deep distress. What can we do to help?

Whenever possible try anticipating the problem and intervening early, which are the keys to your dog's weathering the storm, so to speak. You'll find that your dog can predict thunderstorms better than Art Lake; if he's showing you signs of agitation on a beautiful summer evening, best to check the forecast and take action.

For severe cases, your vet can prescribe anti-anxiety drugs. But there are some interventions to try at home first.

Many people swear by Thunder-Shirts. These tight form-fitting wraps are available at your local pet store or can be purchased online. Some liken using a Thunder-Shirt to swaddling a baby; others suggest they neutralize the static electricity in the air during a storm.

Some over the counter products can help. Dog appeasing pheremones (DAP), available as a collar, spray or plug-in diffuser, contain a pheremone released by a nursing dog. A holistic vet might be able to suggest herbal or essential oil solutions(always get qualified advice before trying this). Composure TM is a brand of vitamin and colostrum mix that can soothe a dog if given before the anxiety ramps up.

Since most dogs' instinct is to hide when frightened – that is why you find them in the tub or closet—why not accommodate them? Sitting together in a roomy closet or other small enclosed space can reassure your pup that he's safe. A well-filled Kong toy, food releasing puzzle , or bits of cooked chicken breast meat can help too.

Not every suggestion works for every dog, but it's worth trying to help your canine pal cope. The payoff? Maybe both of you can enjoy the fireworks this year.