If you’re like most pet owners, you’ll be celebrating the 4th of July with your dog. But did you know that fireworks scare dogs? In fact, more dogs end up in shelters during and after the 4th of July than any other time of year. That’s why it’s important to take precautions to keep your dogs safe and calm during the holiday. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 tips for keeping your dog safe on July 4th celebrations!
10 Tips to keep dogs safe on July 4th
Fireworks and dogs generally don’t mix. The sudden, loud noises can scare even the calmest of dogs. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), “More pets end up in shelters during and after the Fourth of July holiday than any other time of year.”
Here are some tips on how you can keep your furry friend safe and calm this Independence Day:
- Stay Indoor
Keep your dog indoors in a quiet, sheltered area during fireworks displays. If your dog feels safer in a crate, put him in there with a toy or bone to keep him occupied.
- Go for an Early walk
Exercise your dog earlier in the day so he’s tired come nighttime. A tired dog is less likely to be as reactive to fireworks.
- Talk to Vet
If your dog is particularly scared of fireworks, talk to your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medication or natural calming remedies in advance of the holiday.
- ID is Very important
Make sure your dog is wearing proper identification in case he does run off during a fireworks display.
- Do not leave your dog outside
Never leave your dogs outside unattended, even in a fenced yard. Dogs have been known to jump or climb fences in their panic to escape the noise.
- Maintain a safe distance from fireworks
Keep dogs away from any and all fireworks, even “safe and sane” ones like sparklers. Sparklers can heat up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit and cause severe burns if handled incorrectly.
- Try to keep the sound away from dogs
Try to avoid any sound pollution entering the home. If you have a home theater, it’s better to shift to that room for that day. Your dog might thank you in the morning for it.
- Close all your windows and doors
The lighting of the fireworks or the sound may come through windows that will make your dog scared of windows or doors permanently. Closing them completely will protect them not only from fireworks but also from future trauma.
- Give your dog his favorite toy
Dogs are more connected to their toy. Similar to human kids, every dog has a favorite toy and they feel comfortable when they stay around those toys. So, keeping them beside them or with them is important.
- Stay with your Dog
Apart from everything mentioned above, it is very important to stay with your dog. You are the only person who can comfort or make him safe on this planet and it’s your responsibility to stick with him during his hard times. Of course, he will do the same for you unconditionally.
We hope you found these tips helpful! Remember, the best way to keep your dog safe during the 4th of July is to keep him indoors in a quiet, sheltered area. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. Have a happy and safe holiday!
