The 4th of July is probably the worst night of the year for your dog. There will most likely be fireworks close enough to your home that will make your dog very anxious. So be prepared with these tips.
Keeping Your Dog Calm During The 4th Of July Fireworks
1) Accustom Your Dog To Loud Noises
By playing firework sounds in the background, your dog will get accustomed to the loud noises. Start it off very quietly and gradually increase it. So start this a few weeks before the day. Here is a video from YouTube you can play:
It is essential that you positively reassure your pooch for them to associate the sounds with something positive. So play with them, cuddle them, give them treats. And then on the day, they will associate the real fireworks with you loving them, so love them when the works start.
2) Have A Safe Space For Your Pooch On the 4th Of July
Generally, dogs need a safe place to go when anything negatively affects them. It is their comfort place. And they will definitely appreciate this safe space when the fireworks begin. A dog crate will work wonders for them.
Check out these crates below:
It is best to accustom them to a crate when they are young. But if they are older, you can make the crate a positive thing with their favourite blanket and toys and treats. Do not rush this as getting in a crate can be very intimidating. So start it early.
When the fireworks begin, they will most likely go into the crate for comfort. You can then provide them with more toys and treats and love.
3) Let Them Enjoy Fun And Delicious Toys
There is no better distraction than a toy with delicious treats inside. A puzzle toy will be helpful for your dog to be concerned with the toy and not necessarily the loud noises. You can check these toys below that may be perfect for your dog:
Of course, your dog may be too scared to eat treats at this uncomfortable time. But you can comfort them by being with them.
4) Keep Your Dog’s Information Up To Date
We don’t like to think about it. But there is the possibility that your dog will try to run out of fear. It is well known that the 5th of July is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters. Because they are trying to reunite lost dogs with their owners.
Having your dog fitted with a collar that has your information on will help anyone who finds your dog find you. Having your dog microchipped is also important for your dog’s safety. Here are some collars you can consider:
Try and get a detailed and recent photo of your dog, this will help shelters identifying your pooch. If you are really worried your dog will go running, you can fit a GPS tracker on their collar. So you can find them easily using your phone:
5) Exercise Your Pooch The Morning Of The 4th Of July
Before things get too busy and loud, take your dog for a long walk. You can also take them to the park to play with other dogs. This will tire them out. So they will more likely want to sleep than run away.
Take into consideration the heat of the day. So it may be best to go out in the morning so as not to exhaust your pup. Keep them hydrated and enjoy the nice long stroll together. It will also be good for you.
6) Use An Anxiety Wrap
Making an anxiety wrap will help your dog be calm during the fireworks. You can watch the video below for TTouch to learn how to make it:
You may be looking for more of a permanent one, you can see some options here:
7) Turn Up The TV Or Radio
Our dogs are generally familiar with the sounds of the TV or radio. So they are already desensitized to this noise. So put them on and it may distract them from other loud noises. There is even a YouTube Video to help relax your dog. Check it out here:
8) Close the Windows And Curtains On The 4th Of July
Closing your windows and curtains will help dampen the volume of the fireworks. This will keep your dog calmer and feel safer. Do a sound test in all the places of your house to find out which part is more soundproof. This will be the perfect place to put your dog’s crate.
9) Anti-Anxiety Medication
If your dog is ultra-anxious, consider getting anti-anxiety medication. There are many calming treats that will help ease anxiety levels. Consider getting one of these:
10) Remain At Home On The 4th Of July
Your dog will feel much more comfortable if you are at home with them. You are their comfort after all. But you may have to leave your dog at home. The first thing to consider is getting someone else who your dog knows to pupsit.
If this is not possible, a Furbo Dog Camera can be very helpful. It won’t just let you watch your dog. But it also notifies you when your dog barks. Then you can talk to your dog with the 2-way radio. Plus, you can toss your dog a treat using the app.
Click on the image below to find out more:
It is advisable to consult your veterinarian and dog trainer to be fully prepared for this day.
If you found this read valuable, please share it with your friends and family. Keep safe over this festive day.
Thanks to Ash Tree Veterinary Centre for the featured photo.