02/07/2025
TIPS FOR DOGS AFRAID OF FIREWORKS
It's almost here. The date dog parents dread the most - July 4th.
I've had clients ask me what to do for their dogs at this time of year, so I'm posting this in the hopes it will help everyone with a similar problem. I'll cover what to do with your fearful dog, as well as how to keep your dog safe and healthy.
Please plan in advance for July 4th if your dog has a problem with fireworks.
Please make certain your dog is microchipped, because so many dogs get lost on this day running away from home while in panic mode. A microchip is the best way to get them back. Check to make certain the information on the microchip is up to date, because it won't do you any good if it isn't. If you also have a collar with a tracking system, so much the better. Make certain it's on your dog, fully charged, and turned on that night.
Make certain the ID tag on your dog is up to date with your current address/and or phone number.
Check the fences around your house, if your dog goes out in them, to make certain there are no holes under the fence that your dog could escape from, and no rotting boards that can be easily loosened. Check that the latches on any gates are securely closed.
If you're having guests over to celebrate, secure your dog in a room separate from any of the places your guests might go, so as to keep the dog from escaping if someone leaves a door to the outside open.
Be aware of the temperature outside and inside, and provide your dog with plenty of fresh water. July is the hottest month of the year, and dogs can easily overheat, and get dehydrated.
Some foods and drinks can be poisonous to dogs, or cause problems in dogs with certain medical conditions, so be certain your dog is kept away from anything that might prove harmful. Ask your guests not to share their food with your dog.
Keep your dog away from the hot grill, and any fireworks, to prevent burns and other types of serious injuries.
Don't put your dog outside alone in your yard. Go outside with them, and stay with them while they're out. If you walk your dog, make certain your dog is on a leash at all times while you're walking them. This isn't the time to have your dog off leash. Limit their time outside to going potty, and then take them right back in. If you need to open the front door for any reason, be aware of where your dog is, so they can't bolt out the door and run away.
If needed, have an over the counter homeopathic remedy for anxiety on hand, or a stronger prescription medication from your vet. Remember to always discuss with your vet any homeopathic meds you want to use beforehand, because they may interact with other meds your dog is on, and/or any medical condition they may have. Don't wait until the last minute to contact your vet, because you might not be able to get ahold of them in time to get the prescription you need for the holiday.
If your dog is helped by a Thundershirt during storms, have it ready to put on them for the fireworks. If you don't have a Thundershirt, a snug fitting t-shirt will be helpful in making your dog feel a little more secure.
Think out in advance what you're going to do for your dog, so you're prepared. It's best if you can stay with them, and have them in a room where you can block out the sights and sounds of the fireworks. A basement rec room would be a good choice. If you're upstairs in a room, close the windows/blinds/curtains.
Turn on the TV, or music, making it a little louder than usual to block out the sounds of the fireworks. In addition, a white noise machine would also be helpful to have playing at the same time. You don't have to buy one, as there are many apps available with white noise, and most of them are free. Instead of a white noise machine, you could turn on a fan, using the high setting. That will help to block out the noise that the TV doesn't block out.
Have your dog's favorite toys/blanket with them as a distraction. You could also put some peanut butter in a Kong and freeze it the day before, so it's ready to give them that night. If you have a breed prone to pancreatitis, like Miniature Schnauzers, don't give peanut butter, which is way too high in fat. Instead give them something low in fat, like Sam's Yams, which are dehydrated sweet potato chews that will occupy them for quite awhile.
Don't mollycoddle your dog. If you act different, stressed, upset, or nervous, your dog will sense that, and it will upset them more. Stay cool and calm, and act natural.
Remember that fireworks may be set off as soon as it's dark on July 4, and into the very early morning hours, and on subsequent nights, so keep an eye on your dog as best as you can during those times.
You and your dog will get through this ok. Don't worry. It will soon be over.
Wishing you all a very happy 4th of July!
- Lisa Lavender
"Dog Training With Lisa"
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https://www.facebook.com/DogTrainingWithLisa?mibextid=ZbWKwL