Fourth of July and Canada Day celebrations are in full swing! While the Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays, it is not however for my dog, Daisy. Loud and celebratory fireworks displays means my dog cowers in the corner of the couch or under my legs and feet. She reacts to the sound of fireworks similar to that of a thunderstorm – pretty terrified. I hate seeing her in such distress. She gets anxious and fearful – and I know she’s not the only dog out there.
Does your dog – or even your cat have a similar reaction?
Dr. Jennifer Adolphe, PhD pet nutritionist for premium quality, nutrient-rich pet food Petcurean, knows all too well the safety risk of fireworks on her pets. Many years ago, she had one of her three dogs with her at a lake, when fireworks went off right beside them. Her pup bolted straight for home, and in the most direct path possible, across roads and yards. She felt lucky that her beloved pup was fine and anxiously waiting for her at home, but she has since taken precautions for her three dogs, and would like to share tips with you!
Here are her tips to keep your dogs safe and stress-free during fireworks:
- Control the noise: Try to block out the fireworks noise with other noises they are familiar and comfortable with – like the TV or some music. You can do this whether you are at home, or out – just leave on for them.
- Desensitize them to fireworks: You can mimic the experience by playing fireworks CDs or YouTube videos in advance, and treat them as they are playing. This will help lessen their anxiety, and reaction, for the actual fireworks.
- Create a safe space: Many dogs feel secure in their crate, and you can make it even more cozy by putting a blanket over it and providing a few of their favorite toys.
- Let them out in advance of the festivities: Plan your dog’s bathroom break prior to the fireworks, so they will be indoors / contained when they start- and if you have an outdoor cat, bring them inside.
- IDs are a must: The best place for your dog during fireworks is at home, it is safer for everyone. But if you have them out, make sure they are contained and/or leashed, and are microchipped and have ID tags.
*I love these tips for keeping your pet safe during fireworks. We already “control the noise” during thunderstorms for Daisy. We put on some music in the background when a storm rolls in. She does a lot better with the scary thunderstorm when we have some background music playing! As for the other tips – I am eager to try out the desensitizing dogs to fireworks. I think that is a great idea!
What tips do you have for keeping your pet comfortable during fireworks?
Have a safe and happy fourth with your furry family!