Yesterday was Independence Day and like most Americans, I watched the fireworks. Not unusual, right? Well, I took my dog. She loves them! I'm sure she is the only dog on the planet that does but she really enjoys them. I'm lucky, most dog and cat owners are probably dealing with the aftermath of the firework displays and picnics.

I wanted to give a few little remedies for some of the more common concerns "the day after"...

* Vomiting and Diarrhea - this is usually the biggest issue for most dog owners. Whether it was the potato salad, the 12 hot dogs or the stress from company or the noise, their GI system is upset. Here is a little trick to get that stomach back in shape.

o Diarrhea - coconut. Sounds crazy I know but it really does work! Get yourself some unsweetened coconut (or even macaroons work). At the first signs of diarrhea, give a small amount of coconut - no real need to force this down as most dogs love it! A good tablespoon should do the trick.

o Vomiting - fasting. Take your pet off any food for at least 24 hours and then restart the next day with only half the size of a regular meal. On day three, back to normal feeding. Be sure that your pet has access to fresh water at all times though! This trick works great for those cats that have thrown up a hairball as well. For those pets that have medical conditions that require medication of regular feedings (i.e. diabetes), please consult your veterinarian first.
o Please be sure that if your pet exhibits any excessive lethargy, bloating of the abdomen, labored breathing, blood in diarrhea or stool or vomit, excessive of either vomiting or diarrhea or any other non-regular behavior, that you seek medical help with your veterinarian as some of these may be symptoms of more severe conditions.

* Torn or shredded nails/pads

o Obviously if there is active excessive bleeding, seek medical assistance.

o If there is a small amount of bleeding from a nail (non-painful), you can use corn starch and pressure. This should stop the bleeding.

o Shredded pads - you can use a little neosporin on the pad and then place the pets foot into a sock so that it does not lick it off (or an e-collar). Never tie anything onto your pet's feet!

* Stress

o The quicker you can get back into your normal routine, the faster your stressed pet will calm down.

o Lavender - this smell is calming to your pet as well. Keep a small container of lavender oil or fresh/dried flowers around for when you pet is stressed or will be in a stressed situation. Make the home smell of lavender but DO NOT PUT ON YOUR PET.

Good luck!