Mercury retrograde can be hell on pets, too — here are 5 tips to help them get through it

Mercury retrograde, the most dreaded of astrological transits, can hinder communication, exhume relationships and compromise travel — and it can be hell on pets, too.

Named for the god of messaging, Mercury is our planet of communication and mental processing, the mind and the mouth. Three to four times each year, the planet appears to travel backward across the sky, bringing with it minor calamities, relationship quagmires and casual chaos.

When does Mercury retrograde start?

This month, Mercury retrograde begins on Monday, Aug. 5, and keeps the hijinx coming through Aug. 28.

Mercury is the fastest-moving celestial body in our sky. Known as a personal planet, it affects us intimately, significantly and daily.

Research from Everypaw Pet Insurance reveals that searches for “Does Mercury Retrograde affect cats” have risen by 100% over the last three months, while searches for “Mercury Retrograde dogs” have increased by 33% over the past year.

How does Mercury retrograde affect us?

A separate study found that one in three pet owners believe Mercury retrograde influences how their pets behave.

Indicators that your pet is being impacted include being resistant to commands, sleeping in different places and having accidents in the house. 

The first half of this Mercury retrograde will be particularly affecting the four legged among us as the planet is backspinning in Virgo, a sign associated with daily rituals and domestic animals.

Manuela Brumm, a certified dog trainer at Woofz, a puppy and dog training app, maintains that animals, particularly dogs, are more sensitive than humans.

Sensitive and scent-sitive, as it were.

Recent research suggests that dogs can smell our stress and alter their behavior in response to it. Our canine companions experience “emotional contagion” from the smell of human stress, leading them to make more “pessimistic” choices.

And when Mercury retrograde pulls its usual bulls–t, these effects are amplified.

“During this time, dogs’ usual communication might be disrupted, making it harder for them to follow commands or express their needs,” Brumm tells The Post. “For example, a dog might get confused and miss a call they usually respond to. This period can make pets more anxious and restless, so maintaining a calm and steady environment at home can really help.”

Brumm is on hand and paw to help owners navigate this transit.

1. Engage in mentally stimulating activities

Brumm explains that during this retrograde cycle, pets, like humans, feel more restless,

“It makes sense to buy some puzzle toys, interactive feeders, or smell games to hold their attention. Mental stimulation can help them focus their attention away from external distractions and reduce stress levels. It can also boost their confidence and give them a sense of accomplishment.”

2. Incorporate sound and aromatherapy

Brumm imparts that people can support both themselves and their pets by creating an environment that promotes peacefulness.

“Diffuse essential oils such as lavender or chamomile. Pair this with soothing music or nature noises developed exclusively for pets. These sensory experiences can calm your pet and create a quiet environment, countering the chaotic energy of Mercury retrograde.”

Make it nice — keep it calm.

3. Practice grounding exercises together

Mercury retrograde can be a destabilizing time, and Brumm recommends reconnecting with the great outdoors with bare feet and your pet in tow.

“Slow, focused walks in nature can help ground your pet. Allow your dog to explore and sniff around, as this can be beneficial for them,” Brumm suggested to The Post. “Walking barefoot on the grass with your dog can also help you both feel more grounded and connected to the earth, lowering anxiety and stress.”

Known as “earthing” or “grounding,” going 10 toes deep in the dirt is known to calm both mind and body. Practitioners believe you can rejuvenate yourself by connecting it to the negative electrical charge that flows through the earth.

4. Energy healing and massage

All living beings can benefit from a little TLC during Mercury’s backspin. When the vibes are trash, touch therapy can bring us back into balance.

As Brumm expounds, “If you want to balance your dog’s energy, use energy healing treatments such as Reiki or acupressure. These approaches can help with relaxation and overall well-being. Giving your dog a light massage can enhance circulation, relieve muscle tension, and build your bond, delivering both physical and emotional comfort.”

5. Monitor and adjust your energy

Difficult though it may be, experts urge pet owners to make a concerted effort to remain calm, cool and centered during Mercury retrograde.

“A lot of dogs are used for emotional support, but it’s worth remembering that these are not stuffed animals,’’ Dr. Andrea Y. Tu,  medical director at Behavior Vets of New York, previously told The Post. “Dogs feed off the energy we exude.”

Brumm echoes those sentiments, urging owners to practice self-care during this transit to alleviate the high-octane stress they can transfer to their pets.

“Manage your anxiety by practicing mindfulness and stress-relieving methods,” Brumm maintains. “By maintaining a steady and positive energy, you can create a soothing presence for your pets and make them feel safer.”

Astrology 101: Your guide to the star

Astrologer Reda Wigle researches and irreverently reports back on planetary configurations and their effect on each zodiac sign. Her horoscopes integrate history, poetry, pop culture, and personal experience.