Humans love to oohhh and aaahhh at the fireworks that blast into the skies on the 4th of July. Ask any pet parent, though, and many will tell you that fireworks, no matter when they go off, can cause dogs untold amounts of anxiety. If you live in an area of the country that shoots off fireworks on July 4 or if you have neighbors who insist on setting off fireworks no matter what day it is, we have 7 ways to keep your dog safe on July 4th.
Shelters and animal rescue groups experience a surge in lost and found pets on July 5th – it is one of the biggest days of the year for frantic pet parents seeking to be reunited with their dogs. July 5th is also a time when more dogs are surrendered because someone has found a lost dog, doesn’t know who it belongs to, and simply drops it at a shelter. We do thank those people who find lost dogs and return them rather than letting them roam and risk injury, but you don’t want your pup to be a July 5th statistic.
7 Ways To Keep Dogs Safe On July 4
Spending time with friends and family and enjoying a barbecue, swimming pool party, and relaxing the day and night away sounds ideal – and it may be – for the humans. BUT, these idyllic days can lead to anxiety and stress for your dog.
Why?
- Strangers in the house
- Children – who may be face-level – can feel like a threat
- Other dogs in the house
- Foods and drinks left unattended that entice your dog but could cause harm
- The sights and sounds of fireworks displays
If you’re having friends and family over for a picnic and to watch firework displays, be aware that this is a stressful time for your pup and take steps to keep her safe.
Here are our best tips:
- Keep table scraps and alcohol away from your dog. They don’t need people food and it could make them deathly ill. Tell your guest that no matter how cute Fido is when he’s begging at the table that he isn’t allowed to have table scraps.
- Keep all fireworks, lighters, and matches out of the reach of your dogs. This means you will also want to keep your dog away from the hot barbecue or charcoal grill.
- Don’t use insect repellants or lawn treatment chemicals that contain DEET. If you use a yard service, make sure they use pet-friendly products.
- Make sure your dog is wearing her collar that has her name and your contact information on it. Consider getting your pet microchipped as an added layer of protection.
- Keep your dog home, away from crowded streets and strangers. Even the calmest dog could snap or become so anxious at large crowds that he acts out of the ordinary. Also, if you have a small dog, imagine how scary it is for them to be surrounded by constantly moving feet and the fear of getting stepped on.
- Keep your dog inside during the fireworks festivities. Make sure your dog has been walked and done all his business before the sun goes down.
- If your dog is truly anxious, don’t leave her home. Her anxiety will increase if she’s alone. Hearing the frightening noises and seeing the flashing lights could cause her to panic and injure herself.
Many pet parents stay home with their dogs, give them Juananip, or CBD treats to help them calm down. They also turn on ambient sounds, close the curtains, and sit with them to calm them.
Don’t let your beloved dog become a statistic this July 5th.
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Article by pet parent Robbi Hess who shares her life with high-energy poodles and three kitties and truly understands how catnip for dogs helps her pups chill!
