Some dogs have outright noise phobias, and most do not like the sound of loud fireworks. Â Do whatever it takes to keep your pets safe and to keep them as comfortable and fear-free as possible through the upcoming holiday.
Safety first! Â Make sure your dogs are indoors – maybe even in a small room or kennel, especially if people are in and out of the home or your dogs are scared. Â The fourth of July is the number one day for pets to be lost.
Whatever you do, do not let your pets near the fireworks. Â Burns are a very real possibility. Â Scared/curious/happy/unsure dogs will often try to bite lit fireworks. Â I NEVER want you and your dogs to go through the aftermath of that.
Comfort is a close second to safety! Â If need be, discuss medication with your veterinary team, especially if your dogs’ fears are extreme.
Take a long walk or have an extended play time – if the weather is cool enough – before the evening begins, so your dogs will be tired. Â Sometimes that will help diffuse anxiety a bit.
Stay calm…
If you are worried your pets will be scared, they may think you are worried about the bizarre explosions. Â If you are calm, they will pick up on that and often reflect your calm.
…and comfort your pets!
If your pets are nervous, PLEASE comfort them! Â Do whatever it takes – treats, play time, holding, petting, to get them through the week and especially the night of the Fourth.
Use a Thundershirt if it helps. Â (It probably will).
Use pheromone spray if it helps. Â (It probably will).
Play classical music.
Use a Kong with a soft treat inside or a treat puzzle to keep your dog distracted.
Keeping your dogs kenneled for safety sake will often double as a comfort to them. Â Unless you are concerned they may ingest it, include a favorite blanket or stuffed animal or t-shirt.
When all is said and done, reward your dogs for their bravery or attempted bravery, and remind them that this celebration comes only once a year!
Happy, Happy Independence Day, and to our international friends, Happy July Fourth! Â May the day be fun and non-scary for all of the people and all of the pets.
What do you do to help your dogs get through the fireworks?