Fireworks and Fido on the Fourth of July

Independence Day is a favorite summer holiday when we celebrate our freedom with family, food and fireworks.  As much as we enjoy the fireworks, they create a significant level of stress in most dogs. The lights and noise can send a trembling dog running under the bed or worse, frantically jumping through a window or out of their yard and away from home.  In fact, more pets go missing on the 4^th of July weekend than any other time of the year.

NOW is the time to make a plan to keep your dog safe on the 4^th of July holiday.

• Consult your vet for anti-anxiety meds if needed
• Make sure your dog’s identification tag is secure and has up-to-date information
• If your dog is not already micro-chipped, do it now
• Check your fences and gates to ensure they are secure and locked
• Starting NOW, take your dog outside only on Your neighbors often set fireworks off several days before …..and after…… the holiday so be prepared
• Don’t take your dog to fireworks celebrations
• Keep your dog inside away from windows in a quiet, calm area. Consider crating your dog in the interior of the house or basement
• Give your dog a soothing treat such as a frozen peanut butter Kong
• Pull the window shades and use white noise (TV, fan) or calming music to drown out the fireworks
• If you are going to be away from home on the 4^th of July, consider hiring a pet sitter to keep your dog calm and safe.

With a little preparation, both you and your dog can have a safe and Happy 4^th of July !