How to Keep Dogs From Panicking About July 4th Fireworks + Other Safety Tips
With July 4th right around the corner there's a lot to be done — food to be prepped, plans to be made. But as you're getting ready for the summer's biggest day, you'll want to take extra special precautions with your smallest family member: your dog.
The holiday can be a fun time for us humans, but for dogs, whose ears are more sensitive than ours, evening fireworks can really freak them out.
That's why it's important to come up with a game plan for the festivities. And one woman on TikTok is sharing some of the ways she prepares her Golden Retriever Teddy so that he won't get scared when fireworks go off.
Related: Injured Fledgling Bald Eagle Saved in Patriotic Rescue on Fourth of July
The Golden mama recently shared video of her pup sitting on the couch watching a video of fireworks.
"This is a reminder to do desensitizing training with your dog," she wrote in the text overlay. In the caption she explained she added that when doing this "desensitizing training," dog owners will want to start with the volume low "and have them distracted with treats, food or a toy while it’s on."
"Then you can slowly increase the volume based on how comfortable your pup is," she added.
People online loved this helpful bit of advice. "I do this as soon as my puppies can hear! It makes a huge difference," wrote one person. "My Corgis hate the fireworks, I have to play baby music to cover the sound every year," someone else lamented. "Really wish I would have started that when my Aussie was a puppy. He’s 7 and a total mess for fireworks season. Have tried everything," a third person shared. "Never thought of this! Thank you," someone else chimed in.
Ways to Keep Pets Safe for July 4th
Many people want to include their dogs as part of the holiday outdoor activities. But there's a good reason why you shouldn't. Dogs can't take the loud noises. In fact July 4th is one of the top days of the year for pets to break free from their families and run away out of fear.
“Pets are family, and it’s important that the humans in their lives take all necessary precautions to keep their four-legged loved ones healthy and safe at all times,” Petland’s President and CEO Joe Watson said in a press release warning pet owners of the dangers of the holiday.
“With upcoming Independence Day fireworks and other activities, pet owners should prepare for how they will assure the safety and wellbeing of their dog or cat over this year’s July 4th holiday and weekend," he added.
The organization recommends that people update their dogs' ID tags in case they run away. But it's ultimately best to leave your dogs at home, or keep them in quiet rooms away from any windows. If you're having a party you'll want to crate them too. Keep curious dogs away from any sparklers or fireworks and never leave your dogs alone in a hot car — even for a minute.
July 4th can be tricky for pet owners, but starting your prep early can help make the day so much easier.
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