The Fourth of July is an exciting and celebratory day for Americans. However, for our dogs, this day and the days leading up to it can be terrifying. The unexpected loud sound of fireworks and their irregular noise patterns often make many animals feel vulnerable and afraid. The loud sounds of fireworks can trigger our dogs' “fight or flight” instinct, as well as other anxiety attacks. This can lead to behavior problems or worse; a dog that will run away out of fear in search of safety. Luckily, there are things we can do to ease our dogs anxiety.
My number one safety tip is to make sure your dog’s microchip is up to date. If your dog doesn’t have a microchip, make sure they have a secure collar on that has your current phone number. Making sure your information on their ID tags and microchips are up to date helps ensure that, if they do run away, they have a better chance of being returned safely back to you.
Before the Fourth of July, you can start the desensitization process with your dog to the sound of fireworks. To start this process, find firework sounds online or on YouTube. Then play these sounds at a very low volume; make sure that your dog is not fearful at this volume. Then while this noise is playing give your dog their favorite treat. Continue this for several minutes. If your dog begins to show signs of anxiety, stop this exercise. The goal of this process is to replace your dog's fearful behavior with calm and relaxed behavior. this can take some time to get to that point. But you never want to push your dog past its threshold. As long as your dog is calm and taking treats you can slowly increase the volume. Do these training sessions for only a couple of minutes each day.
Additionally, there are great holistic anti-anxiety medications and chews with melatonin or cannabinoid (CBD) oil that works wonders in calming down an anxious pet. Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally found in all of our bodies and is used to tell us when to sleep and wake up. Melatonin is also used as a calming aid. If you have an animal that is only mildly anxious Melatonin chews would be the perfect way to ease their anxiety, my favorites are NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Soft Chews. If your animal is extremely anxious and can become destructive at the sound of fireworks using a form of CBD oil can be helpful. CBD oil is a compound found in cannabis and hemp. Most CBD oils have little to no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the substance that can produce psychoactive responses (Dogs Natural Magazine). I have seen very anxious dogs become calm and relaxed with just a couple of drops of CBD oil. You should always contact your vet before adding anything else to your dogs diet or medication routine.
Finally, if you are going away for the night, make sure your pet is as comfortable and secure as possible. Turn on the TV or classical music. Classical music has been found to have the same relaxing effect on animals as it does on humans and can ease their stress. Take your dog for a long walk before the fireworks start. These activities will help rid their systems of extra energy and stress, helping them to cope with the additional stress of fireworks. If possible, keep your dog indoors. Being in a safe space can help ease the stress as well. This will also reduce the risk of them running away.
Using these general guidelines and tips, you can help make this year's Fourth of July a happy and safe one for your whole family, including your dog! Always discuss diet and medication changes with your vet to prevent any concerns.
Happy Celebrating!
Edited By Tara Rico