Calm your pet's summer stress

Summer can be the best time for our pets — but thunderstorms, unfamiliar houseguests and travel can make our four-legged friends surprisingly anxious. The more proactive you are, the better. So, if you note a twinge of nervousness, take action before your pet escalates to terrified. Here are some options:

Food. Royal Canin CALM, by prescription, has calming nutrients: L-tryptophan and nicotinamide (vitamin B3).

Pheromone therapy. Copies of species-specific pheromones (Feliway for cats; Adaptil for dogs) may lessen anxiety.

Music. There's new evidence that music helps soothe the soul. Skip Kanye or The Stones; opt for classical.

Redirection. Distract your pet with interactive play, food puzzles and games.

Covering. Products like ThunderShirt or Storm Defender, which resemble a sweater/cape, apply soothing pressure.

If you don't see an improvement, see your vet, a behaviorist (dacvb.org) or an animal behavior consultant (iaabc.org).