No doubt about it, fireworks make most dogs scared as can be. This means holidays like the 4th of July and New Years can be particularly stressful for our canine companions. You may have noticed how fearfully your dog reacted on the 4th of July this year. Even the largest of dogs can turn into instant lap dogs the moment fireworks start popping. Did you know that on the 4th of July, more dogs run away from home than any other day of the year? According to Cesar Millan, it is natural for dogs to be afraid of loud noises, and running away from noise, flashing lights and a burning smell is simply their instinctual reaction. Don’t let your dog become another statistic. Here are some tips from the experts to make sure you are prepared for the next big celebration.
Removing Them from the Situation
Plan on setting off fireworks of your own at your house? If so, it is a good idea to make arrangements for your dog to go elsewhere. You could take him or her to a friend or relative’s house, or a familiar doggie day care. If you are taking them somewhere they have never been before, you should take them there a time or two beforehand, to help them feel more comfortable with the situation.
Creating a Distraction
A completely different approach is to keep your dog as close to you as possible. Even if you have an outside dog, bring them inside on this night of celebration. Try distracting your dog with brushing, petting or food. Speak to your dog in a soothing voice, to reinforce the fact that everything is truly alright. Your dog may feel safer if they are snuggled up in a kennel that is placed next to you. Soft music in the background may also help.
Use a Thundershirt
According to PETA, putting a Thundershirt on your dog may be the best solution of all. This vest snuggles your dog much like a mother swaddles her infant child. The Thundershirt website says it has a very high rate of success, (80%) when it comes to calming anxious dogs. Thundershirts are available in a variety of sizes and colors that will work perfectly for your pet. They are used to help calm dogs when thunderstorms are going on, and may also help with dogs that have separation anxiety.
Another quick tip for helping your dog to be calmer when fireworks are going off is to make sure he or she is tired out from exercise before the festivities begin. A very long walk can do wonders for expending your dog’s excess energy levels.