The Fourth of July can be a stressful time for dog owners as fireworks displays can leave dogs feeling nervous and distressed. To help keep pets safe and calm during the festivities, South Carolina veterinarian Dr. Sylvalyn Hammond and celebrity dog trainer Chrissy Joy shared some tips. Preparation is key, with Joy suggesting playing the sounds of fireworks ahead of time while offering treats or toys to make the noise less frightening. Creating a safe indoor space for dogs, such as covering their crate in a quiet area, can also help them feel protected and comfortable.
Encouraging exercise early in the day can help dogs rest and sleep during the fireworks at night. Taking dogs on a long walk or engaging in a fun water activity can tire them out while also keeping them cool in the summer heat. Calming treats, such as Kradle’s Daily Calming Bliss Bars, can help manage anxiety in dogs. Frozen Kong toys filled with dog-safe foods like canned pumpkin and yogurt can be effective in keeping dogs calm during stressful events.
Keeping your dog’s identification up to date, including tags and microchips, can be crucial in case of an emergency. This can increase the chances of a safe return if your dog manages to escape when spooked by loud noises. It’s also important to keep party foods and alcohol well out of pets’ reach during Independence Day celebrations. Many human foods are toxic to dogs, and giving them such foods can cause an upset stomach or worse, adding unnecessary stress during the holiday.
In order to make the Fourth of July less frightening for dogs, it’s important to create a safe indoor space for them where they can take refuge during the celebrations. This may include preparing a cozy bed, a favorite chew toy, or even dog-inspired song playlists and TV shows. Encouraging exercise early in the day can help tire dogs out and encourage deep rest and sleep during the fireworks at night. Offering calming treats, such as Kradle’s Daily Calming Bliss Bars, or engaging in activities with frozen Kong toys can help ease your dog’s tension and anxiety.
Maintaining your dog’s identification, including tags and microchips, up to date can play a crucial role in ensuring their safety in case of an emergency. This is particularly important if a dog manages to escape when frightened by loud noises, increasing the chances of a safe return. Finally, it’s essential to keep party foods and alcohol away from dogs during Independence Day celebrations, as many human foods can be toxic to pets and lead to unnecessary stress. By following these thoughtful tips, dog owners can help ensure that their furry friends have a safe and calm Fourth of July.
