Some dogs do not mind the fireworks, while others can be terrified of them. Dogs have very sensitive ears; In fact they are 10 times as sensitive as our own. If you think the fireworks are loud, just think about what your dog is hearing. Also, consider the fact that we have few holidays a year where dogs are exposed to the bright lights and loud noises, which can catch your dog off-guard and confuse him.
The day after a night of fireworks, many pet owners find themselves frantically searching for their pets that have run away. Some pets are fortunate enough to be picked up by shelters but often times are not so lucky.
Here are some simple tips to keeping your pet’s safe:
• Leave your pets at home if they show signs that they are frightened or uncomfortable around the fireworks. Some dogs are not afraid of fireworks at all; instead, they think that they are exciting toys and will try to chase or pickup them up – which is also a good reason to leave them indoors.
• Leave them in a small room (preferably with no windows) in a crate where they are less likely to harm themselves, or your home.
• Do not leave your pets outside even if you have a fenced yard. Frightened pets will dig, climb, jump and do just about anything to escape.
• Make sure your pets have their collars and ID tags on in case they do get out. Better yet, micro chip them in case they lose their collars in their frantic attempts to escape.
• Play some music, or leave the TV on to drown out the fireworks.
• Spend some one on one time with your dog a few hours before the fireworks begin or before you leave them alone. Throwing the ball around, or taking him for a long walk can help calm him down and tire him out.
• Make sure your dog gets the chance to relieve himself before all the noise begins – just in case!
• Try giving your dog a relaxing bath using aromatherapy shampoos or a long massage.
• Add some cooked potato or cooked white rice to his regular meal to help him feel full and sleepy.
• Plan far enough ahead so you can get some dog anxiety medication from your vet.
• Give him a favorite chew toy stuffed with treats (If you freeze it the night before it will take him longer to get the goodies out.) There are many long lasting chew toys you could try, but please remember that your pets should always be supervised.
• DO NOT try to soothe or baby your dog if they begin to show signs of anxiety; it will most likely make the situation worse.. Be cheerful and confident in your tone, and reward your dog for calm behavior.
The 4th of July is an exciting holiday and is a great time to celebrate with friends and family. Remember that your pets do not always share this excitement. Please forward this important message to all the pet owners in your lives, and stop pet tragedies from happening on this holiday.
The Sit Means Sit Western Washington Family
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