We humans enjoy the Fourth of July Holiday. The fireworks displays are dazzling and the booms are amazing. To us. These same dynamic light shows frighten many dogs. Veterinarians say that July 3rd is usually the most trafficked day in their offices with clients coming in to get medications for their dogs.
As a pet owner, I watch my little Walker Hound, Ginger, tremble from the first pop of neighborhood firecrackers being set off in the street to the last crescendo resonating from the community fireworks displays. Noise like this can send dogs into a frenzy. As a pet sitter, I have been hired to drive a frightened downtown client’s dog around in my car with the radio turned up until the nighttime celebrations were over. As a Fear Free Professional, I am concerned about our pet’s emotional and physical well-being.
Here are some tips to keep you and your dog more calm and comfortable during this holiday:
– Keep them inside with you and don’t leave them alone.
– Give them plenty of exercise earlier in the day.
– Provide a safe den-like place inside for your dogs to retreat (a crate is a good choice).
– Close the windows and curtains.
– Make sure your dog is wearing ID tags.
– Give your dog something fun to do (a frozen treat-filled peanut butter Kong to chew).
– Compression wraps or garments (like a Thundershirt) can be soothing for some dogs.
– Pheromones can create a calming sensation in some pets. My veterinarian sells Adaptil collars and diffusers that can help dogs relax.
– Fans, white noise machines, audio books, music designed for pets, or leaving the TV on may help.
– In serious cases, talk to your vet about medications that may help.
– If you are planning a party, keep dogs away from the grill, alcohol, and unsafe foods (chocolate, xylitol, macadamia nuts, grapes, raisins, onions, avocado and bread dough).
– Keep pets away from decor that could cause harm if swallowed: (shiny or colorful wrappers, sparklers, glow sticks…).
Stay safe, have fun, and take good care of your pet! Happy 4th of July!
Submitted by: Jeanne Crockett, Crockett’s Critter Care, 252-635-2655