It’s Independence Day here in the US which means Fireworks🧨🧨. Whether you love them or hate them, most dogs don’t enjoy them. In fact, July 4th is consistently cited as the day the most pets (dogs & cats primarily) go missing. Some sources estimate the number of lost pets increases by 30% to 60% between July 4th and 6th.
Dogs' reactions to fireworks range from not caring at all about them to health damaging terror. When you have an already fearful or anxious dog, the odds of them having a negative reaction to fireworks goes way up.
One side effects of fear is the fight or flight response. Too many dogs panic and run away during fireworks displays so a key tip is to keep your dog tagged, leashed, crated, inside – basically whatever you need to do to eliminate their ability to flee in a panic and get lost.
In a nutshell, here’s what you need to do to keep your dog safe and calm during Fireworks:
1. Keep your dog physically safe from panicking and running away
2. Use medication to help keep your anxious dog calm
3. Buffer the noise as much as possible
4. Distract your dog where you can with toys, games and yummy treats
5. Comfort your dog who will feel safer with you there
Fireworks Tips for Dog Parents:
1. Keep your dog physically safe from panicking and running away
As mentioned above, even if you don’t plan to take your dog out, keep their ID tags on them. If they are frightened and someone opens the front door, even a dog who has never bolted before might run out. If your dog isn't chipped yet, make sure you have that done for next year (it's likely too late by now to make an appointment for this year but you can try!).
2. Medicate your dog to help them stay calm
Many anxious dogs may already be used to being medicated for vet visits, long car rides, etc. Discuss with your vet if using medication is advised for your dog during a fireworks display. If you don't already do this, it may take time to get an appointment so if you can't use medication this year, look into it for your dog for the future.
3. Buffer the noise as much as possible
Now here's one you can do with little to no advanced preparation. The less exposed to the noise of fireworks your dog is, the better. I know that’s easier said than done but do what you can to minimize the disturbance. Close your windows & curtains, put on more familiar noise like TV, music or white noise (a fan works just as well). Allow your dog to be in the spot in your home where they feel the safest whether that’s the bathtub, your bed or their crate.
4. Distract your dog where you can with toys, games and yummy treats
It’s possible your dog will be too anxious to be distracted but do your best. Offer belly rubs, favorite toys, yummy treats, etc. Buy some new toys ahead of time to up your pup’s curiosity level. Get creative!
5. Comfort your dog who will feel safer with you there
There is an old myth that says comforting your dog makes them think it’s OK to be afraid but that's B.S. Comforting your dog when they're afraid is a loving compassionate thing to do. Sit with your dog in the bathtub or lay in bed singing to them. I used to read out loud to Jake to distract him.
Fear is complex. Comforting a loved one is simple. Keep at it even if it seems like your dog isn’t getting better. One can be afraid and comforted at the same time.
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