Hey there, pet parents! Lilly here, your Austin and Kat resident animal expert. There's nothing quite like summer in Seattle. The sun finally decides to stick around, the hiking trails are calling our names, and both my dogs Arya and Floki are living their best lives with all the outdoor adventures.

But as we gear up to celebrate the 4th of July, I know many of you are already thinking about those booming fireworks and how they might affect your furry family members. Here's some of our best tips below!

Fireworks 101 with Lilly

I've learned through years of helping anxious pets is the key isn't just reacting when fireworks start—it's preparing their nervous systems in advance. Check out my video for all the details!

Here's the crucial part: if you're using calming botanicals or CBD, don't wait until your dog is already panicking. The goal is supporting their nervous system before the stress begins, giving them the best chance to navigate fireworks season with confidence. Start a few days early with twice-daily support and let their nervous system settle into a calmer baseline.

For dogs: Start with 2 mg of CBD per 10 lbs of body weight per dose

🐶 A 15-20 lb pup would start with ¼ of a No More Wiggles chew while a 60–70 lb dog would start with 1 full No More Wiggles chew

For cats: Start with 3 mg of CBD per 10 lbs of body weight per dose

🐱 The starter dose for a 15 lb cat would be ½ dropper of the 300mg Everyday Wellness oil, mixed with food or a favorite treat

Start Early with Supplements: If your pet hasn't used our calming formulas before, introduce them at least a week ahead of time. This allows you to observe how your dog responds and find the right approach. Continue daily support through July 5th or until fireworks subside in your area.

Day-of Strategy: On July 4th, begin with morning powder in breakfast, then provide oil or chews well before noon. Maintain consistent support every few hours until around 11 PM—prevention is much easier than trying to calm an already stressed dog.

Environmental Setup: Transform a quiet, windowless room or large closet into a comfortable retreat space. Add white noise or calming music, and stock it with your dog's favorite blankets, toys, and high-value treats.

Safety First: Update ID tags and microchip information before festivities begin. Know your local shelter's contact information—preparation now can mean a quick reunion if your dog becomes frightened and runs.

Exercise and Engagement: Schedule vigorous exercise early in the day when your dog can enjoy being outdoors safely. Provide puzzle toys, lick mats, and engaging activities to keep minds occupied as evening approaches.

Stay Present: If possible, remain home with your dog during peak fireworks hours. Your calm presence provides tremendous comfort. If you must leave, arrange for a trusted friend or pet sitter to provide companionship.

General Calming Guide
Part 1: Recognizing Signs of Stress

Before finding the right kind of support, it helps to understand how our dogs show us they’re feeling out of balance. Every dog is different, and stress doesn’t always look like what we expect. By learning to spot the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs, you can better anticipate your dog’s needs and respond with confidence.

Not All Stress Looks the Same

It’s easy to notice when a dog trembles during fireworks or hides during a thunderstorm. But stress often shows up in quieter, more nuanced ways. Keep an eye out for things like:

  • Sudden pacing or restlessness
  • Excessive yawning or lip licking
  • Ears pinned back or tail held low
  • Changes in body posture—hunched, tense, or unusually still
  • Disinterest in food or play during normally enjoyable moments
  • Barking more than usual—or going completely quiet
  • Avoidance behaviors, like turning away or hiding under furniture

Everyday Moments Matter
Stress doesn’t only show up during big events like car rides or vet visits. Many dogs experience challenges during everyday routines: changes in schedule, unfamiliar visitors, or even a trip to a busy park. Some dogs are more sensitive than others, and recognizing what sets off your pup’s internal alarm system can be the key to helping them feel more secure.


Your Dog’s Unique Signals
Some dogs go still, others get vocal. Some seek comfort, others slip away. The more you observe your dog over time, the more you’ll pick up on their individual “tells.” Noticing these early signs allows you to offer support before stress escalates.


Paws for Thought:
Have you noticed a pattern in how your dog responds to different people, places, or times of day? Keep a short journal or mental note—it can be a great tool for tailoring your dog’s calming routine in a way that truly fits them.

Part 2: Daily Support vs. Situational Use: Finding a Perfect Balance

We often hear from pet parents wondering whether they should use our calming collection daily or just during specific situations. The truth is, both approaches offer distinct benefits, and understanding the difference can help you create the perfect support plan for your furry friend. Here are some basics on building the perfect combined calming routine.

A Foundation for Wellness

When used consistently each day, the No More Wiggles Collection helps support your dog's natural balance systems holistically. Think of it like regular exercise or a balanced diet—these aren't just responses to problems but foundations for overall wellness.

Daily use provides several key benefits:

Cumulative Effect: Many of our botanical ingredients, like adaptogens and hemp extracts, work most effectively when used consistently, allowing their benefits to build over time.

Prevention Rather Than Reaction: Daily support helps maintain your dog's natural equilibrium before challenges arise, rather than scrambling to address symptoms after they appear.

Baseline Balance: Regular use helps establish a more stable baseline for your dog's natural nervous system function.

Subtle but Significant Changes: Pet parents often report noticing gradual improvements in their dog's overall demeanor, sleep patterns, and ability to navigate everyday situations with greater ease.

As one of our customers shared: "We started using the powder daily with our rescue dog, and the transformation wasn't dramatic or immediate—it was something much better. Over about three weeks, we noticed she was naturally settling more easily, recovering more quickly from startling sounds, and generally seemed more comfortable in her own skin."

Bestselling Dog Calming Soft Chews by Austin and Kat - A natural solution for your dog's stress and anxiety. Formulated with calming botanicals, including lavender and chamomile, and the powerful lion's mane mushroom superblend, infused with our new BLEND#4 CBD+CBDA whole plant hemp extract.

Meeting Specific Challenges

Using the No More Wiggles Collection for specific situations also has its place in a comprehensive wellness plan:

Immediate Support: For known challenging events like travel, gatherings, or seasonal celebrations, situational use can help support your dog's natural coping mechanisms.

Flexible Approach: Some dogs may need support only during specific circumstances, making situational use practical and effective.

Targeted Response: Situational use allows you to adjust and target support based on your dog's particular needs at a given moment.

Complementary Approach: Many pet parents find that situational use works best when built upon a foundation of ongoing support.

Many members of our Austin and Kat community have discovered that a combined approach works best—using the powder or a small amount of oil daily as a foundation, then adding additional support through chews or increased oil serving sizes during more challenging situations.

This layered approach honors your dog's unique needs while providing comprehensive support for their natural balance systems.

Paws for Thought: What pattern have you noticed in your dog's response to different situations? Understanding these patterns can help you develop the perfect support strategy—whether that's daily use, situational support, or a thoughtful combination of both.

Part 3: Lifestyle Tips for Promoting A Calmer Baseline

While supplements play an important role in supporting your dog's wellness, there's much more we can do as pet parents to help our furry friends maintain their natural calm and confidence. Here are some strategies that have helped countless dogs in our community.

Create a Comfortable Retreat

Every dog benefits from having a designated space where they can feel secure. Whether it's a cozy bed, properly introduced crate, or quiet room away from household activity, this personal retreat gives your dog a place to naturally self-regulate when needed.

"Harper has her special spot under my desk with her favorite blanket. When things get overwhelming, she'll head there on her own and always emerges more balanced." —Kat

Regular Exercise & Mental Enrichment

Physical activity and mental stimulation are essential for helping dogs maintain their natural balance:

  • Daily walks: Even 15-30 minutes twice daily can make a significant difference
  • Puzzle toys: Challenge their minds and provide productive focus
  • Training sessions: Short, positive sessions support mental engagement and confidence
  • Nose work: Engaging their powerful sense of smell provides natural satisfaction

Create Consistency in Routines

Dogs naturally thrive with predictable patterns in their day. Consider maintaining:

  • Regular feeding times
  • Consistent walk and play schedules
  • Predictable bedtime routines
  • Gradual transitions when routines must change

Supportive Training Approaches

Working with your dog's natural learning style can help them navigate situations with greater confidence:

  • Positive reinforcement: Reward calm behavior to naturally increase its frequency
  • Gradual exposure: Introduce challenging situations slowly, in small, manageable steps
  • Body language awareness: Learn to recognize early signs that your dog is becoming unsettled
  • Comfort signals: Develop calm verbal cues or gentle touch signals that help your dog feel secure

Managing Your Own Energy

Our dogs are remarkably attuned to our emotional states. Practicing your own calm breathing, speaking in a soothing voice, and maintaining relaxed body language helps create an environment where your dog can more easily maintain their natural balance.

Part 4: Frequently Asked Questions about Using Supplements to Calm Pets

We receive a lot of great questions about calming supplements and we're always coming up with new ones ourselves. Below is a one-stop shop for some of the most pertinent ones.

My dog seems calm at home but gets anxious during car rides or vet visits. Can I give supplements just for these occasions?

Absolutely! Many pet parents use our No More Wiggles products for occasional situations like travel, thunderstorms, or vet appointments. The oil and chews may help support your dog's normal calm disposition during these temporary stressful moments. For best results, consider giving the supplement 30-60 minutes before the anticipated event.

Is there a difference between supporting a naturally anxious dog versus helping with situational stress?

Great question! Some dogs naturally have more sensitive temperaments, while others only need support during specific situations like fireworks or grooming. Our collection works to support normal nervous system function in both scenarios. Dogs with naturally anxious dispositions often benefit from daily consistency, while situational stress may only require occasional use.

My rescue dog has trust issues. Will giving them calming supplements help any with behavioral training?

Our supplements may help support your dog's normal calm state, which can create a better foundation for positive training experiences. However, supplements work best as part of a comprehensive approach that includes patience, consistent training, and sometimes professional guidance. They support your dog's natural ability to learn and adapt, but they're not a replacement for proper socialization and training

How do I know if my dog's anxiety level might require more than just natural supplements? Should I talk to my vet?

While our products may help support normal calm behavior, some dogs experience stress levels that benefit from professional guidance. Signs that warrant veterinary consultation include destructive behaviors, excessive panting, loss of appetite, or behaviors that interfere with daily life. Natural supplements work wonderfully for supporting normal nervous system function, but your veterinarian can help determine if additional approaches might benefit your specific dog.

My dog is already on prescription medication for anxiety. Can these supplements be used together?

This is an excellent question for your veterinarian. While our natural ingredients are generally well-tolerated, any dog currently taking prescription medications should have supplement additions approved by their vet. Your veterinarian understands your dog's complete health picture and can guide you on the best comprehensive approach.

Do indoor dogs need different calming support than outdoor dogs?

Every dog's lifestyle affects their wellness needs differently. Indoor dogs might experience different types of stimulation or have fewer opportunities for natural stress relief through exercise and exploration. Outdoor dogs may encounter more environmental stressors. Our supplements support normal nervous system function regardless of lifestyle, though adequate exercise and mental stimulation remain important for all dogs' overall well-being.

My dog only gets stressed during specific seasons (like firework season). Should I use supplements year-round or just when needed?

Many pet parents successfully use our products seasonally for events like Fourth of July or New Year's Eve. For predictable seasonal stress, you might start supplementation a few days before the anticipated period and continue through it. Some families find that building a foundation with daily use helps their dogs handle seasonal challenges even better, but occasional use can certainly be effective for many dogs.

Should I transition my dog off calming supplements once they seem more balanced, or is it better to continue?

A: Supporting your dog's natural balance is an ongoing journey rather than a destination. Many dogs benefit from continued support to maintain their calm disposition, especially during life changes or stressful periods. If you'd like to reduce supplementation, consider doing so gradually during a calm period in your dog's routine. Remember, consistency often provides the best long-term benefits for maintaining natural balance.

Will calming supplements affect my dog's natural personality or energy level? Will they change in any way?

No. The No More Wiggles Collection is designed to support your dog's normal nervous system function without changing their natural personality. Your playful pup will still be playful! Some dogs may naturally rest more as they achieve better balance, but they remain their authentic selves.

How quickly might I notice a difference in my dog's behavior?

The oil and chews typically support normal function within 30-60 minutes for most dogs. The powder is designed to build cumulative benefits over several weeks of consistent daily use. As with any natural approach, individual responses may vary.

How do I know which calming formula is right for my dog?

Consider your dog's specific needs, size, and preferences. Many pet parents start with the chews for their convenience, while others prefer the precision of oil dosing. The powder makes an excellent daily foundation for overall wellness that is best supported by a CBD formula. Our customer care team is always happy to provide personalized guidance.

Part 5: Life Lessons from
the Austin and Kat Community

Our wonderful community of pet parents has shared countless stories about how the No More Wiggles Collection has supported their dogs' natural balance and wellness. Here are just a few of the best tips and tricks we've heard along the way:

  • Keeping Calm During Cookouts

    "My rescue shepherd Gracie always struggled during summer celebrations. This year, I learned the key was preparation—I start her daily powder routine a week before any big gathering, then give the Wiggles oil about 30 minutes before the festivities begin. I also create a quiet space indoors with her favorite blanket where she can retreat if needed. For the first time, she was able to remain calm enough to rest comfortably throughout the evening. The combination of consistent support and having an escape plan made all the difference."
    —James & Gracie

  • Daily Balance for a Shelter Rescue

    "After adopting our dog from the shelter, we noticed she would become unsettled when left alone—even for short periods. My approach became layered: daily powder mixed into her breakfast for foundational support, plus keeping chews handy for those more challenging days. I also started with very short departures—just 5 minutes at first—and gradually built up her confidence. The key was consistency with both the supplements and the training routine. The transformation in her overall demeanor has been beautiful to watch."
    —Sophia & Riley

  • Stressful Car Travel Comfort

    "Car trips used to be a challenge for our golden retriever. I discovered that timing was everything—I give Charlie the No More Wiggles oil about 45 minutes before we leave, and I always pack his favorite travel blanket and a special car-only toy. Starting with short trips around the block helped build his confidence before longer journeys. Now he settles naturally during our drives to the lake house and arrives ready to enjoy his vacation!"
    —Marcus & Charlie

  • Destressing a trip to the groomer

    "Benny used to shake the entire car ride to the groomer and would need two people just to get him inside. Now I start with his daily powder for general support, then give him a chew about an hour before we leave. I also bring his favorite high-value treat and ask the groomer to let him sniff around the space first before starting. The combination of preparation, timing, and having familiar comforts has turned grooming from a nightmare into something he actually tolerates well."
    —Rachel & Benny

  • Staying overnight away from home

    "When we visit my parents for the weekend, Luna used to pace all night and barely eat. I learned to pack her routine along with her supplements—daily powder goes in her travel food container, and I bring both oil and chews for flexibility. I also pack her own bed and a shirt that smells like home. Starting the powder a few days before we travel, then using oil the first evening we arrive, helps her settle into the new environment much faster."
    —David & Luna

  • Separation anxiety be-gone

    "Max would follow me everywhere and panic whenever I picked up my keys. We built a whole routine: daily powder for foundational support, plus practice sessions where I'd grab my keys and sit back down without leaving. I give him a chew about 30 minutes before I actually need to go, and I always leave him with a puzzle toy stuffed with his favorite treats. The supplements help support his natural calm, but the predictable routine is what really built his confidence that I'll always come back."
    —Jennifer & Max

Part 6: Choosing the right option

Remember, you're not just providing a supplement—you're supporting your dog's capacity to navigate life's challenges while maintaining their natural joy and balance. Finding the right fit means all the difference!

How Different Formats May Help Support Normal Calm Behavior

Each format in Bailey's No More Wiggles Collection offers unique characteristics that may help support a dog's natural calm behavior in different ways.

Chews provide a convenient, pre-measured approach that many dogs enjoy as a treat. The chewable format may help support sustained calm behavior over several hours, making them ideal for consistent daily use or when you want longer-lasting support.

Oil offers the most flexibility in serving sizes and can be easily adjusted to meet your individual dog's needs. The liquid format may help support calm behavior more quickly than chews, and can be mixed directly into food or given on its own.

Powder provides a CBD-free foundation of traditional botanicals and adaptogens that may help support your dog's overall balance and resilience. This format blends seamlessly into food and offers broad-spectrum botanical support that complements the other formats.

Using the Collection Effectively:

  • Chews: Perfect for daily use or specific situations
  • Oil: Offers flexible serving sizes, ideal for precise adjustments
  • Powder: Provides a CBD-free foundation to support overall balance

Format-Specific Benefits:

Chews: Convenience, pre-measured servings, sustained support
Oil: Flexibility, customizable serving sizes, faster onset
Powder: CBD-free botanical foundation, broad-spectrum support

Complementary Benefits of Using Multiple Formats Together

Many pet parents find that combining formats may enhance overall support for their dog's natural calm behavior. A layering approach—such as using powder as a daily foundation while adding oil or chews when needed—may help provide comprehensive wellness support.

Consider using multiple products when you want to support both daily balance and occasional situations that may challenge your dog's natural calm disposition. The powder's botanical foundation works well with either the oil's flexibility or the chews' sustained support.

Timing Considerations

The different formats work on varying timelines. Oils may begin supporting normal function more quickly, while chews provide more sustained support throughout the day. Powder works as a foundational support that may help maintain overall balance when used consistently.

Helping pets with situational anxiety
using hemp & botanicals

Maintaining normal calm behavior is essential for any dog's overall wellness. Whether it's during everyday activities or more challenging situations, supporting their natural balance allows them to experience life more comfortably.

Bailey's No More Wiggles Collection combines our proprietary BLEND#4 (CBD + CBDA) with traditional botanicals and adaptogens to nutritionally support your dog's natural systems.

Especially good for pets with situational anxiety, these calming formulas are dedicated to our dog Bailey and designed to help support your pet's nervous system in times of stress.

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