Everyone loves hearing the sound of fireworks go off during the 4th of July. We all enjoy celebrating the day that America gained its independence, but it’s important to also make sure our furry friends enjoy it too!
Why are Dogs Scared of Fireworks?
Fireworks and the 4th of July go hand in paw, but let’s not forget that some dogs may not be the biggest fan of fireworks. Fireworks are unpredictable and loud, not to mention dogs have more acute hearing than humans do, which can make them more sensitive. If your dog is feeling uncomfortable, they can exhibit different symptoms such as restlessness, pacing, trembling, or whining. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Below are some tips to ensure you can go crazy for America’s independence and your dogs can ruff it up alongside you!
Doggy Den
Create a safe place where your dog can go. You can deck it out with fluffy blankets and their favorite toys to make sure they’re comfortable. You can also close all of your curtains and blinds to decrease the amount of bright light flashes that they may be sensitive to. If your dog chooses a different location to hide, make sure not to pull them out. Let them come out by themselves.
To really provide a calming experience, consider using calming scents like lavender or chamomile. You can also offer special treats or try giving your dog a massage to calm their nerves down. By spending time with your dog in the den, they’ll begin to associate it with feelings of comfort and security.
Chill, Chihuahua
You can play white noise in the background. There’s all kinds of different options, like music from YouTube for fireworks or even general relaxing, turning on the TV, or even using fans. These noises can help to distract them as well as help them drown out the sounds of fireworks outside.
For dogs who are extremely anxious or noise-sensitive, noise-canceling headphones made specifically for dogs can be an option. These headphones are designed to muffle loud sounds and provide a sense of security. It's important to introduce your dog to these headphones gradually and ensure they are comfortable wearing them.
Exercise Their Rights
You know that old saying right? “A tired pup is a happy pup.”
Making sure your dog gets tons of exercise can help to tire them out before the events all start. Maybe try going on an extra long walk (or an extra long run if you want to be daring for yourself), and playing a longer game of catch. Keep your dog on a leash if you decide to go the extra distance in case a random bang might startle them.
Chip Me
Do your best to keep your calm dog during all the exciting events, but if they do happen to get scared, make sure they have ID so that they can be easily found and identified. One way is to have their name etched into their collar or make sure they’re carrying contact details around with them.
To a Land Far, Far Away!
Another option to help your dog is to travel to another location where the noises may not be as loud or frequent. You can try going to a family or friend’s house or maybe a separate location altogether if you want to. We have an article here about making the trip as comfortable as possible for your canine friend so that they enjoy the ride as much as you enjoy the drive!
Conclusion
As you prepare to celebrate America’s independence, make sure your dog has a good time too. By creating a safe place for them, playing some calming music, getting maybe a bit extra exercise, and making sure they’re carrying contact details in their collar, you can both enjoy the exciting events that bring our nation’s colors of red, white, and blue to life.