Wellness Wednesday – 7/8/20

WELLNESS AROUND THE WEB

New Study Details the Best Types of COVID-19 Face Masks

Since there isn’t enough personal protective equipment to go around, many Americans have sewn their own fabric masks or simply used a bandana.

While it’s understood that some level of protection is better than none, there hasn’t been much information on the effectiveness of these homemade masks.

A new study, published in the scientific journal Physics of Fluids, sheds new light on how the materials and construction of a face mask can impact its effectiveness.

Ultimately, the study determined that simple masks, like a bandana or handkerchief, are virtually ineffective. The most effective homemade masks were those that were well-fitted with multiple layers of quilting fabric. Cone-style and surgical masks also proved to be sufficient.

In Dogs, The Most Common Phobias Relate to Loud Noise

Dogs with noise phobias show symptoms including panting, pacing and hiding. These phobias can be so frightening that dogs will try and escape; this can lead to unnecessary injuries as a result. In dogs, the most common phobias relate to thunderstorms and loud noises.

With forward planning, your veterinarian may be able to prescribe treatment preemptively, but not all treatment needs to come from medications.

A thunder shirt can be a great way to easy the anxiety during summer storms and July 4 fireworks. Thunder shirts apply a gentle and constant pressure on the pet’s torso. Using pressure to relieve anxiety is a common practice; the pressure works in a similar manner to swaddling an infant.

In a recent study, almost 75% of pets were frightened by fireworks, but only 30% of owners sought help for their frightened pet. This summer, make sure your pet gets the love and attention they need during this particularly noisy time of year.