Plan ahead to keep your dog calm and comfortable during July 4 fireworks!

​by Canine Partners Of The Rockies on July 3, 2020

​Set your dog up for success: keep your dog inside, make sure they have their id, and distract them.

• Stay home with them or have someone who can. Don’t bring your dog to a fireworks show – even a drive-in events. Staying with them at home will make them feel comfortable.
• Keep dog safe indoors in a secure and familiar room such as living room, family room, bedroom, or their crate. Even dogs in fenced yards find ways to escape the scary noises.
• Don’t set off any fireworks of any kind near your dog – including sparklers or poppers.
• Have proper ID on your dog!  July 4th is a common day for dogs to go missing and you want to make sure your pup gets home. Even for dogs who haven’t previously shown escape behaviors. They may act differently under stress.
• Turn on music or tv in the room your dog is in. You want it at a slightly higher than normal volume to mask the outside noise.
• Give your dog an activity to keep them distracted and occupied. Play fetch inside, provide a new toy or bone, or give them a frozen Kong prepared in advance.

Things to keep in mind:

Reaction to loud noises is based on individual dogs temperament and experience.  It is important for you to manage your own anxiety because our dogs feed off of us. You know your dog best and what will work for them.

Fear can exhibit through pacing, whining or barking, soliciting attention, alternatively hiding, shaking or trembling, abnormal bathroom or chewing behaviors. Fear may last for a bit after fireworks have subsided.

For more July 4 safety tips, visit ASPCA https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/fourth-july-safety-tips