It’s that time of year again when we celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks and lots of noise. With only a few weeks before the celebrations begin, it’s best to think ahead and be prepared to make your dog as safe and comfortable as possible.
Did you know that more dogs are lost on July 4th than any other day of the year. They can be scared by the loud noise of fireworks and want to run and hide, so it’s important to keep them safe. Here are a few tips to help keep your dog calm and safe on July 4th:
1) Be sure your dog is wearing a collar with a tag that has your most up-to-date contact information. If you own a GPS collar like the Fi collar, now is the time to be sure it is fully charged and on your dog. If they run off and get lost, this will let anyone who finds them be able to contact you and with the GPS collar, you’ll be able to locate them quicker. You might even try a Byte collar tag that has a unique QR code that when scanned, will show your contact information and information on your dog.
2) Make sure your dog gets some walks outside and playtime earlier in the day. This way you can avoid taking them for outside when the fireworks begin.
3) Don't take your dog with you to any fireworks celebrations or have them outside with you if you have your own fireworks display at home or viewing a neighbor’s display.
4) Keep your dog inside. Find a safe, secure place inside your home where your dog can feel comfortable during the fireworks. You may want to play calming music that will help create a relaxing environment. There are many long, relaxing videos on YouTube that you can run on your television or computer with calming visuals and music. Check out this article on Creating a Zen Space for Your Dog to Alleviate Anxiety
6) Keep you dog occupied by playing with them, giving them a long-lasting chew toy, or using a licky mat filled with peanut butter. This is a great idea as the action of licking can be calming for a dog while keeping them busy.
7) Calming treats and a calming wrap like a Thundershirt can be helpful. If your dog has a great deal of anxiety and fearfulness, check with your veterinarian for anti-anxiety medication. Try to do this several weeks before July 4th, so you are prepared.
8) A nice massage can be calming for your dog. Start with long, slow strokes from head to tail using the palm of your hand with flat fingers, always keeping one hand in contact with you doggie. You can also massage you dog in their favorite spot to help keep them calm. Remember to take slow, even breaths that you can synchronize with your dog's breathing. Check out my blog on Meditating With Your Dog for some tips.
Remember dogs can get scared and run with loud noises from fireworks.
It’s up to you as a pet parent to keep your doggies safe and comfortable.
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Note: I have received no remuneration for any products mentioned in this blog.
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