Just imagine, you're out in the yard. Everyone else has left for work and you're home alone. It's been terribly hot and muggy all day, and you really just want a cool place to "chill."

All of a sudden, an awful noise explodes into the atmosphere! You look everywhere, but can't see the cause of the terrifying sound. The horrible, frightening sound shakes the very ground you're standing on -- again and again.

You run to every corner of the yard looking for a safe place. You run to the door to try to get in the house, but find you're locked out. You have no way of knowing if your family is safe or even where they are.

So you decide to run for your life. You run and run until at last the frightening sound stops. That's when you look around and find you're lost. You have no idea of how far you've gone or even in which direction. Now what?

What a scary situation. This is the situation that many family dogs find themselves in every afternoon during monsoon season.

If your dog is frightened by thunder, it's very important that you take every measure necessary to protect him. Whatever is required, it is each of our responsibilities as pet owners to step up to the situation.

Many dogs just need a crate or dog house to get in. Some find comfort in a small room or closet in the house. Some will need a comforting hand. Some even need medication to be safe. This can be found at your vet's office, or a homeopathic formula is available at most places where natural foods and supplements for pets are sold.

The worst case scenario is your dog becomes so lost he never makes his way back home, or is hit by a car. The best hope at this point is that some kind person picks him up and brings him to Payson Humane Society. We receive several dogs each monsoon season. We recommend a micro-chip for identification, just in case. And, of course, a collar and tag with your information is good, too, but can become lost.

If we can help you with ideas on how to keep your pet safe during monsoon or any season, give us a call at (928) 474-5590.