07/02/2017
Tips for providing a safe July 4th 🇺🇸for your 4 legged hunting buddy:
(AND YES, a hunting 🐾dog may LOVE GUN💥FIRE but not be a fan of fireworks🎆)
Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise earlier in the day.
Keep your dogs inside during fireworks, preferably WITH human companionship.
If it’s hot, air conditioning will help.
Bringing your dogs to a fireworks display is not generally a good idea
Provide a safe place inside for your dogs to retreat. When scared of sounds they can’t orient, dogs often prefer small enclosed areas. (I once heard of a dog who climbed in bathtubs.) If your dog is comfortable in a crate, that is a good option too
If possible, keep the windows and curtains closed. Covering the crate or lowering the blinds can also be helpful. (Removing visual stimulation can also help calm dogs.)
Make sure all your dogs are wearing ID tags with a properly fitting collar. Dogs have been known to become Houdini around the 4th of July. (I AM NOT A HUGE FAN OF LEAVING COLLARS ON DOGS, especially while unattended or in crates, but I AM DURING THIS WEEKEND IF THE DOG HAS A CHANCE OF ESCAPING!!!) microchips are always great options too.
Leave your dog something fun to do – like a frozen Kong filled with his favorite treats.
I like using frozen peanut butter (without xylitol) or plain yogurt!
Last, using loud music that the dog is used to can sometimes help distract from the occasional loud firework.
*Personally tonight I used a combination of essential oils for the first time for our one dog who does not much enjoy fireworks. I used Young Living's "stress away" and "lavender" directly on the fur behind her ears. I diluted with coconut oil for the carrier. Within minutes she stopped shaking and hiding and just stuck close to my side. Best she has done in a long time. I was extremely happy I found something that works for her. Young Living also makes a animal scent line but have not yet ordered the calming one yet to try.
https://www.youngliving.com/vo/ #/signup/new-start?sponsorid=11654676&enrollerid=11654676&isocountrycode=US&culture=en-US&type=member
(You should always dilute essential oils for animals. Treat them as toddler or babies. Test a small patch first to watch for any allergy signs. Essential oils are extremely concentrated and should be used with a carrier oil in animals. Always dilute for puppies, young or senior dogs. Smaller the dog, the more dilute. This is not meant to cure or prevent or treat any medical problems. Should always consult with your vet for diagnosis or treatments. ) 😊
