29 Jun Tips for a Dog Safe 4th of July

More Pets Go Missing on the 4th of July Than Any Other Day Of The Year!

Share these 9 easy tips to create a safe and dog-friendly Independence Day

Give your dog plenty of exercise during the day and be sure to let them out to potty before sundown when the noise begins.

Make sure your dog is wearing a proper fitting collar with current ID tag and is microchipped in the event the collar comes off. Dogs are expert escape artists around the 4th of July, which makes a GPS collar another great option to ensure your pup returns home safely.

Keep your dog indoors during fireworks with windows secured and curtains closed. Removing visual stimulation will help keep your pup calm.

Be there for your dog. Contrary to popular belief, you can’t reinforce their anxiety by comforting your dog. If you remain confident and calm, your dog will pick up on your energy and likely feel the same.

Ensure your dog remains in a safe, enclosed area where they cannot hurt themselves if panicked. Dogs often prefer small den-like areas (under the bed or in a crate) when scared.

Drown out the noise from the booms outside by turning up the TV, running the dishwasher, doing a load of laundry, turning on a fan, playing music and/or using a white noise machine.

Offer your pup something tasty to focus on during the fireworks like cooked chicken, special dog treats or popcorn. Delicious food can actually help change a dog’s emotional state and behavior. Try creative recipes for frozen pupsicles or a stuffed Kong toy to give your dog hours of fun.

Talk to your veterinarian about anxiety meds, pheromones like Adaptil, aromatherapy oils, anxiety wraps or Thundershirts, if your dog tends to get extremely anxious.

Avoid using fireworks around your dog so they aren’t accidentally burned. And resist bringing them with you to the festivities. Most dogs just don’t enjoy loud noises and large crowds and they’ll easily get spooked and run away.