How to keep your dog safe and happy this 4th of July
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As many people in the UK celebrate America’s Independence Day on 4th July, as responsible dog owners, we need to consider how our much-loved pets will enjoy these festivities – or not!
A barbecue get-together can be enjoyable; think of all those sausages and burgers your canine friend can enjoy, but this celebration day can be a nightmare if your dog is afraid of fireworks. While humans can anticipate the loud bangs of a firework going off, a dog’s heightened senses can make these explosions seem much more intense, especially because they don’t realise what is happening.
Make preparations in advance.
If you intend to leave your dog at home while you go out to party, make sure your dog has a secure room to stay in, perhaps your bedroom, or in a dog cage. Provide a radio, TV, or even a cool air fan to provide white noise that may help calm your dog. If you have anti-anxiety medication that has been prescribed for your dog by a Vet, administer this to them.
Desensitisation Training
If your dog suffers from anxiety with fireworks, it’s not too early to begin planning for the November 5th celebrations. You need to start desensitisation training well in advance of the event so that your dog will react calmly. While your dog is busy playing games with his favourite toy, have a CD playing in the background with firework sounds, or find some suitable audio files on YouTube. Begin at a low volume and gradually increase the volume during each training period until he shows no fear or anxiety. Likewise, if he shows he is afraid, turn off the player immediately. It’s probably too late to begin desensitisation for this year’s Independence Day, but here are some other tips to help keep your dog calm during fireworks.
Remain at home
If it’s possible, especially if you’re not sure how your dog will react, or if you have a new puppy, spend time at home with your pet. He will be calmer and less fearful if you’re there with him during the peak of the firework display.
Tire your dog out
Your pet will be less likely to panic if he has less energy. Take him for a longer walk before dark, when the fireworks usually begin. Keep him on the lead, particularly in areas where fireworks are likely to be set off. Keep an eye open for any pranksters who think it’s a huge joke to frighten a dog with a thrown firework.
Bring him into the house.
There is a considerable risk that, if you usually keep your dog in the garden or allow him outside alone, he may jump over the fence to escape into the road if startled. Keeping him inside will calm him, put him at ease, and hopefully end his barking. Ensure he is microchipped and wearing a collar with an ID tag, in case he goes missing.
Close all curtains, windows and doors.
To prevent your dog from seeing firework glare and zooming rockets, and to muffle loud and scary noises, keep the windows and curtains closed.
Provide a “safe” spot and a treat.
If your pet has a safe place, such as a pet bed where he feels protected and comfortable, try to keep him there during fireworks. A blanket that has your “smell placed on it should also keep him calmer. A favourite toy or a treat can help to relax your dog, as can special cuddles or a dog massage.
Please don’t attempt to extract him from a hiding place.
If he’s nervous and hides under the bed or a table, don’t try to pull him out. This could well cause more anxiety and higher stress levels, and produce an even greater negative connection with fireworks.
Your dog will naturally react to your actions, so remain calm yourself around fireworks. Dogs do not understand that the deafening explosions and bursts of lights on are just for fun. It’s up to us to keep our doggy companions comfortable and safe. Follow our suggestions to make your pet feel calm and secure this 4th of July, and share these tips with your family and friends too.
Key Takeaways
- Consider your dog’s safety during Independence Day celebrations, especially around loud fireworks.
- Make preparations in advance by providing a secure area, white noise, and administering any prescribed anti-anxiety medication.
- Use desensitisation training to help your dog cope with fireworks by gradually introducing them to the sounds.
- Please keep your dog indoors, close curtains, and ensure he has a safe space during the firework displays.
- Stay calm and do not force your dog out of hiding, as this can increase anxiety and stress.