Are you struggling with your pet’s unwanted behaviors, such as excessive barking, jumping, or chewing? The SENTRY StopThat! Spray (also known as PetSTOP!) is designed to help curb these issues. This comprehensive guide, based on the product’s FAQ, provides essential information for pet owners considering or currently using this behavior correction spray.
Understanding the SENTRY StopThat! Spray
This aerosol spray utilizes synthetic, submissive-type pheromones to deter undesirable behaviors in both dogs and cats. It’s important to understand that this product is not intended for direct application onto your pet. Instead, it should be sprayed in short bursts approximately 12-18 inches away from your pet.
Key Features and Usage:
- Targeted Behaviors: The spray can be effective for issues like jumping up, excessive barking or meowing, leash pulling, and chewing on inappropriate items.
- Pet Compatibility: It is suitable for use on pets of all ages and can be used around pregnant animals.
- Product Formulation: While historically there might have been separate formulations for dogs and cats, the current product has identical canisters and labels, indicating the same formulation is used for both species.
- Fragrance: The spray contains lavender and chamomile fragrances. While generally safe and non-toxic with normal hygiene habits, individuals with sensitivities to these fragrances should exercise caution.
- Pheromone Type: The pheromones are synthetic and of a submissive type, intended to signal that the behavior being exhibited is not desired.
Important Warnings and Precautions
Adhering to safety guidelines is crucial for the effective and safe use of the SENTRY StopThat! Spray.
Safety and Handling:
- Aerosol Can: The product comes in an aerosol can. Do not puncture or incinerate the container.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Avoid exposing the can to heat or storing it at temperatures above 120 degrees F (49 degrees C). Do not place it on stoves or radiators.
- Storage: Keep the product out of reach of children.
- Human Sensitivity: While the product has no adverse effects on humans, individuals sensitive to fragrances may wish to avoid the immediate area until the spray has dried. If you are allergic to lavender, this product should not be used due to its lavender fragrance.
Maximizing Effectiveness and Understanding Results
The effectiveness of the SENTRY StopThat! Spray can vary depending on individual pets and the nature of their behavioral issues. Patience and consistent application are key.
Usage and Expectations:
- Application Frequency: There is no set frequency for use, as each pet responds differently. Experimentation may be needed to determine the optimal usage for your pet. The perception of pheromones is immediate, but visible improvement in behavior may take time.
- Time to Improvement: Some pets may take up to a month to show visible improvement. Depending on the pet’s temperament and trainability, continued use for several weeks or months might be necessary.
- Not a Replacement for Training: While the spray can aid in behavior modification, it is not a standalone solution. Consistent training and behavior modification techniques from the owner are also important.
- Limitations: If your pet is hard of hearing or deaf, this product may not be an effective training device.
- Interaction with Other Pheromone Products: The SENTRY StopThat! Spray can be used in conjunction with other SENTRY pheromone products like calming collars, ointments, diffusers, and sprays. For products from other brands, it is recommended to contact the respective manufacturer.
- Effect on Other Pets: The spray can affect other pets in the vicinity. If sprayed around multiple pets, they may exhibit similar reactions. The hissing sound is designed to deter most pets from the area.
Product Details and Lifespan
Understanding the product’s composition and shelf life can help you make informed decisions.
Composition and Shelf Life:
- Pheromone Information: The specific ingredients and the exact percentage of pheromones are considered trade secrets and are not disclosed.
- Shelf Life: The product has a shelf life of 3 years from the date of manufacture.
- Manufacturing Location: The StopThat! spray is made in the USA, with the spray nozzle originating from Italy. Consequently, it is labeled as “Packaged in the USA.”
- Temperature Fluctuations: If the product has been exposed to extreme temperatures (hot or cold), allow it to return to room temperature before use.
The SENTRY StopThat! Spray offers a tool to help manage common pet behavioral issues. By understanding its proper use, adhering to safety warnings, and managing expectations, pet owners can work towards a more harmonious environment with their furry companions.
