7 Fourth of July Safety Tips (and the Truth About Dogs and Fireworks)
While parties, burgers on the grill, and fireworks are fun for people, most dogs aren’t quite as thrilled about the celebration of our independence. Even mellow dogs can become stressed or anxious at the first sign of fireworks—and once they’re under the bed, it can be tough to give them the comfort they need. But don’t worry: We’re here with some tips to help your dog feel less anxious this 4th of July.
4th of July Safety Tips for Dogs
- Stay home with your dog if you can. Unlike their human companions, the Fourth may incite fewer feelings of patriotism and joy, and more stress and anxiety.
- The Fourth is a big day for dog escapes. An easy way to prevent dog escapes? Don’t leave them alone in a fenced yard. We’ve got more tips about how to keep your escape-artist dog in the yard.
- If you’re planning to be away from home, even for just the evening, have someone stay with your dog to provide the security of human companionship and reassure him that everything is okay. (You can hire a Rover sitter for short-term sitting like this.)
- Exercise can help ease anxiety and aid in relaxation. Take your dog for a long walk before the holiday festivities begin. If you’re planning on taking a walk, make sure their collar is on tightly enough so they can’t wiggle out of it. See if you can fit two fingers under their collar—if you can, you should tighten it.
- Give your pooch something distracting, such as his favorite toy or bone—it will act as a pacifier or safety blanket.
- Try a Thundershirt or other calming vest to help calm your pet.
- Play music or have the TV on to drown out the noise of the fireworks, and close curtains to block the flashing lights. Some pet parents also swear by putting tennis balls in the dryer and running it, and hanging out in the laundry room with their dog. Some sitters find that rooms in the basement have less fireworks noise.
Call Rover if You Need Help
If you’re dog sitting on the Fourth, never fear—we’re here to help if the dog you’re caring for is having a tough time. Give us a call at 1-888-453-7889. We’re available 24/7, which means we’re here for you long after the fireworks begin.
We want to hear from you! Do you have any other successful solutions to calm your dog during fireworks or other loud noises? What do you do with your dog over the holiday?
And if you would like to read more, see our post about how to calm your dog during a thunderstorm, with expert advice from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University.
The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional veterinary help.