The 4th of July is officially upon us, and while we all look forward to the cookouts, parades and festive celebrations, one part of the holiday can cause concern for pet owners: The fireworks. And there's a good reason to be concerned: According to Pet Amber Alert, more pets run away July 4-6 than any other time of year.
A study from Rover found that "71% of dog parents see fireworks as their biggest concern for their pets this summer." Country Living’s resident veterinarian, Dr. Tricia Earley, explains, "The boom of fireworks is exciting for us but absolute Armageddon for animals."
Here are some expert-approved tips to help keep your dog calm during fireworks.
Wear them out.
If it's not too hot, take your dog for a long walk before fireworks begin to make sure he is calm and tired.
Then, make sure they are indoors.
Dr. Earley explains, "When dogs are scared, they run, making Fourth of July the most common holiday for pets to escape and get lost." Keep your pup enclosed in a familiar room, but also make sure they have a collar with ID and a microchip just in case.
Play some music or keep the television on.
"Anything you can do to dampen the loud sounds of fireworks, which to them sounds like the world is ending, should help," animal trainer Nicole Ellis previously told Country Living.
Keep calm if you're home with them.
The American Kennel Club suggests staying home with your pup if you can, and if you do, make sure you stay calm through the loud noises. “You absolutely can and should comfort your dog if he’s afraid,” Jenn Stanley, certified behavior consultant and professional dog trainer, and co-owner of Awesome Pawsabilities Pet Training & Behavior Consultations, based in North Carolina told the AKC. “The key here is in how you do so. It’s important to remain calm and use a soothing, even tone. Petting them can be comforting — long, slow, firm strokes along the length of their body are typically very soothing.”
Consider medication.
Some dogs need a little extra help in the form of medication. Dr. Earley says, "If your pet is particularly sensitive, talk to your vet about calming medication."
Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers gift guides, product reviews, crafts, and TV shows like Yellowstone. She’s currently stitching up a cross-stitch pattern for the magazine’s next issue
