Seven Tips to Keep Your Dog Happy and Safe on the 4th of July

As much as we love the colorful lights and loud booms of fireworks, they pose serious risks to our furry friends. Unlike humans, dogs have heightened senses. The loud noises and bright lights can be overwhelming for them. The loud noises of fireworks may cause dogs to experience physical stress, leading to an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and core body temperature. As pet owners, it is our responsibility to take steps to keep our furry family members safe during the fun North Shore events!

1. Keep your dog indoors. The best way to protect your dog during fireworks is to keep them inside. Close all windows and doors, turn on the TV or music to help drown out the noise.
2. Bring out the crate. To prevent your dog from getting scared during fireworks, it is important to create a safe and secure space for them indoors, away from the noise and bright lights. Covering the crate with a towel or blanket will help them feel more secure. Be sure to provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulation toys (such as a frozen kong, or a puzzle toy) to keep them occupied. Additionally, feel free to reach out to us here at Atlantic K9 to provide you with some techniques to help desensitize your dog to loud noises.
3. Make sure your dog is leashed. If you have to take your dog outside during fireworks, make sure they are leashed and properly identified. Use a collar with your phone number and address. This will make it easier for you to locate your dog if they get away from you.
4. Send your dog on a mini-vacation. Consider leaving your dog with a trusted friend or family member who can take care of them during the fireworks. You can also take your dog to Atlantic K9 where they can be monitored during the festivities.
5. Go holistic. Natural remedies, such as lavender oil and chamomile, can help calm your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about medication options, such as anti-anxiety medication, to help your dog stay calm during fireworks. However, only use medication under the guidance of your veterinarian.
6. Consider some quieter alternatives. Many outdoor events now offer laser light shows as an alternative to traditional fireworks displays. Glow sticks are a fun and colorful way to celebrate the holiday without the risk of fire or loud noises.

We hope these tips help you protect your furry friend while allowing everyone to have a paws-itive celebration!