How to Prepare Your Pet For Summer Stressors

Barbecues, fireworks, road trips—summer is packed with excitement for us, but it can be overwhelming for our pets. From loud booms to long car rides, there are a handful of summer stress triggers for dogs and cats that pet parents should be aware of.

The good news? With a little preparation, you can help your pet feel safe, supported, and calm through it all. Let’s explore how to recognize stress in dogs, what causes it during summer, and the best ways to manage pet stress with natural support like CBD.

Common Signs of Stress in Dogs

Being able to recognize the early signs of dog stress is the first step in helping your pet feel better. Some of the most common symptoms of stress in dogs include:

• Pacing or restlessness
• Whining or barking
• Hiding or seeking isolation
• Accidents in the house
• Trembling or shaking
• Loss of appetite
• Excessive licking or chewing

If you notice any of these signs, it's a good idea to start building a stress preparedness plan for your pet.

Why Summer Can Trigger Stress in Pets

Many seasonal changes can cause stress for dogs and cats, including:

• Fireworks and loud noises
• Thunderstorms
• Travel and schedule disruptions
• Being left home alone more often

Each of these scenarios can lead to stress and unease. Fortunately, there are natural and proactive ways to help.

Can CBD Help Dogs with Stress?

Yes! CBD for dogs is commonly used to help support calm behavior and emotional balance during high-stress moments like fireworks, thunderstorms, or travel. At Pet Releaf, we craft all of our products with Full Spectrum Hemp Extract, rich in naturally occurring CBD to help promote relaxation.

Our Stress Releaf Edibites—available in flavors like Peanut Butter & Carob—also include herbs like chamomile and baobab for additional calming support.

From our USDA Organic Hemp Oils to our Edibites, we offer CBD products that can help support your pet’s occasional stress. Our Peanut Butter & Carob Stress Releaf Edibites include additional functional ingredients like chamomile and baobab to further promote calming.

Tip: Administer your dog’s recommended CBD amount about 45–60 minutes before the anticipated stressor for best results.

What to Include in a Pet Stress Preparedness Plan

Make sure your dog has the tools and space they need to feel secure when things get chaotic. Here’s a helpful checklist:

• CBD supplements like oils or chews
• Comfortable space (crate, bed, or quiet room) stocked with cozy blankets
• Long-lasting chews or puzzle toys for mental stimulation and distraction
• Soothing background noise like classical music or TV
• Updated ID tags and microchip info in case of emergencies

Fireworks and Dogs: How to Help Your Pet Stay Calm

More pets go missing around the 4^th of July than any other day of the year. Fireworks are unpredictable and loud, and they can cause panic for even the calmest dogs.

How to Prepare:

• Keep pets indoors and in a secure area
• Create a safe space with their bed, favorite toy, and a filled puzzle toy
• Administer CBD about an hour before sunset or any scheduled fireworks show
• Use white noise or calming music to help mask the sounds
• Always have your dog’s ID tags and microchip information updated

Thunderstorms and Pet Stress

Thunderstorms can be sudden and intense. Many dogs are sensitive to changes in barometric pressure and the sound of thunder.

Ways to Comfort Your Dog During a Storm:

• Cuddle up and turn on the TV or music
• Offer a massage using our Skin & Paw Releaf Balm, which contains CBD and skin-supporting ingredients
• Engage them with play or a chew to redirect attention
• Administer CBD daily as part of a preventative stress management routine

Daily use of CBD can help promote overall wellness and provide steady support when stressful events strike.

Tips for Traveling with a Dog This Sumer

Whether you’re road-tripping or flying, travel can be disorienting for pets. Make it easier on them with these tips:

• Give CBD about 60 minutes before departure
• Re-administer calming support around the 8-hour mark on long trips (CBD’s half-life is ~9 hours)
• Crate train your pet in advance if they’ll be traveling in one
• Pack their essentials: treats, toys, favorite blanket, and water
• If boarding or using a pet sitter, leave clear instructions—including how and when to give medications, food, water, and CBD.

If your pet can’t come along for the ride, make sure to have a trusty dog sitter that your pet feels comfortable around. Rover.com is a great option for reputable dog sitters.

Another option could be doggy daycare or boarding. Find a local doggy daycare in your area or check out our store locator as we partner with many pet resorts like Wag Hotels, located all across the U.S.! 

Vet Visits and Grooming: Reducing Pet Stress

Trips to the vet or groomer can be nerve-wracking. Some simple strategies can help reduce stress:

• Schedule “happy visits” to help your dog associate the space with treats and friendly faces
• Administer CBD beforehand to support calm behavior
• Ask your vet or groomer about calming options or pre-visit routines

Consistency and patience can help your dog feel more secure at these necessary appointments.

Easing Separation Stress When You're Away

As people return to work or plan summer outings, dogs who’ve gotten used to constant companionship may struggle with separation stress.

Help your dog feel more comfortable being home alone:

• Stick to a predictable routine
• Administer CBD before heading out
• Leave them an interactive toy or puzzle to keep them distracted
• Turn music or the TV on
• Make sure their crate or bed feels safe, cozy, and familiar
• Include a piece of your clothing that smells like you
• Practice leaving for short periods before extending time away

Struggling to Pick the Right CBD Product for Your Pet?

We’ve made it easy to find the best calming support for your dog’s stress level, size, and age. Take the guesswork out of choosing supplements and get personalized product recommendations in seconds with our Product Quiz.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before modifying your pet’s health regimen.