Fireworks & Dogs: 5 Best Tips To Comfort Your Furry Friend

Grilling burgers will attract your mouth-watering pup, but loud fireworks will do the exact opposite. Have you witnessed your dog curling his tail under, running under your bed with high anxiety?

No matter how big or small the dog is, this anxious behavior means an increased heart rate, a rush of adrenaline and an increase in stress hormones circulating through the dog’s body. A dog’s keen sense of hearing is not a good thing in this booming situation.

These 4th of July safety tips will help comfort your companion when they need you the most. After all, think about how devoted and loving they have always been to you.

4th of July Safety Tips for Dogs

1. Keep Dogs Inside – The natural instinct for any dog is to flee from fireworks’ noise, and this risk is even higher if your dog is experiencing any kind of separation anxiety during the Fourth of July. So keep your dog indoors with plenty of water because dog’s anxiety increases their thirst.
2. Safe Cave – Dogs feel more secure in a confined place such as a closet or bathroom. Create a safe cave with blankets so a dog can burrow in to feel safe and comfortable to sleep.
3. Doggy Distractions – Mask the loud booms by playing music at a higher volume, turn on fans, or even place tennis balls in the laundry room dryer. Also giving your pooch their favorite toy or bone can help their nerves.
4. Exercise & Outdoors – According to Rover Support and Help4Pets, Inc.“A tired dog is a relaxed dog.”  Exercise your dog earlier in the day so when the fireworks starting booming, your canine will be more inclined to take a nap. When exercising your dog always be ready for surprise fireworks by using a leash or harness even if you are in your own yard. And of course, make sure they are wearing a tag with your information.
5. Dogs Are Not Party Animals – Fourth of July celebrations usually have alcohol, chicken bones, chocolate and hot barbecues, which can all lead to extra health risks for your dog. Also, make sure your dog is kept in a secure place when guests are going in and out of your house, so your dog does not easily escape from the loud noises.

Anticipating ways to address a dog’s fear of fireworks will make for a more enjoyable holiday. Do you have other successful solutions to calm your dog? Please comment below!

WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU AND THANK YOU FOR READING THE DOG PAW POST.

The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

(H/T) Dogs and fireworks: 4th of July safety tips – Rover.com

(H/T) Create safe spaces for pooch during Fourth of July