July 4th

4th of July and your Dog

While fireworks are amusing for humans, dogs are usually frightened. As 4th of July is approaching in the United States, firework displays are inevitable. However, canine owners declare that this festive day is traumatizing for their canines. Many dog owners even visit their local veterinarian on July 3rd to get calming medicine for their canines.

Here are some useful tips to keep your canine safe this 4th of July:

•    Keep your dog busy with plenty of exercises in the morning.

•    Ensure your dog remains indoors during fireworks. Remember, human companionship can help keep your dog calm, so avoid leaving your pets alone during the festivities.

•    Maintain proper air conditioning if it’s hot and never bring your dogs outside when the fireworks start.

•    Offer your dogs a safe room where they can retreat. Dogs usually escape to enclosed areas when they hear frightening sounds. A crate can act as a decent shelter to retreat.

•    Keep the curtains and windows closed. Lower the blinds and cover the crate to calm your dogs.

•    Keep all your pets away from sparklers, hazardous chemicals, lighters, flames, and fireworks.

•    Give your fluffy friend something interesting to do and make sure you also give treats to keep them calm.

Use Sound Therapy

You can look online for soothing music as research shows that a calming sound can help reduce dog anxiety. Start by playing the soothing music in the morning when your dog is feeling relaxed and peaceful. Your dog will then associate the calming music with a general feeling of tranquility.  Use moderate to low volume as this has been medically proven to help calm your dog’s nervous system and prevent anxiety.

Update Your Dog’s Identification Tags

The excitement and fireworks that occur during this holiday can cause your dog to escape your home. So, in the unfortunate event that your dogs run away during the festivities, you want to ensure that they have an updated collar with easily visible identification. Also, consider taking current pictures of dogs in case something happens, and you need to use the photos when looking for your pets.

Conclusion

It’s best to stay at home with your dog on July 4th to help them feel safe and calm. You can play soothing music to offer them peace of mind before the fireworks start. Also, to ensure that your dogs stay indoors, tire them out with exercises and walking during the day.

References RSPCA, OKLAHOMAN