It’s almost summer, so the 4th of July is going to be here before we know it. That’s right– that means it’s officially fireworks season.
They can happen in neighborhoods, after baseball games, in theme parks, and more, even when you’re not prepared for them. So, as a pet parent, it’s important to prepare for how your dog might react to them.
While some dogs may not be bothered or even acknowledge the noise, many show signs of fear, panic, or anxiety while hearing or witnessing fireworks. This can cause a variety of reactions from cowering to whine and drool, to a fight or flight reaction that sends them running for cover. This makes fireworks an especially important situation to know how to handle with your dog.
Let’s review some ways you can help ensure your dog stays safe and comfortable during them:
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First of all, ensure that you keep your dog inside during fireworks displays.
We don’t always know how they’ll react to the noise and lights, and while it might sound fun to have your pup come with you– it might be a scary or even traumatizing experience for them.
This rule to keep them inside also includes time in the backyard– while your yard might usually be a safe space for them that’s fenced, a scared dog could still go into fight or flight mode and scale a fence to try to escape the sound of fireworks.
Try to ensure they use up their energy early in the day, long before the time for fireworks. This could include playtime, a long walk, some training, whatever it is that your dog enjoys to exercise their mind and body. For bathroom breaks needed during fireworks displays, accompany them outside on a leash to be as safe as possible.
Also be sure to close open doors and windows, to be extra cautious of methods your dog might see as an escape.
2. While they’re staying inside, they’ll need a space where they can relax. So, create a safe space for them!
The best place will be one that’s insulated, where you can hear the least noise from outside. This might be an interior room, a basement, or even their crate. You can then make this space comfortable by adding in things your dog loves. You might want to add a blanket, toys, treats, a puzzle, and something that smells like you. Really, it can be whatever items you think will bring your dog comfort! You might also consider turning on gentle music, a movie, or DogTV for your dog to enjoy and further help muffle the noise.
3. Give your dog some entertaining distractions to help them through the night!
This can include things like we just mentioned– DogTV, puzzles, or a movie. I’d also suggest some more time-consuming, enjoyable things that will keep them distracted– like lickmats, Kongs, slow feeders, new or more complicated puzzles, and more things for indoor enrichment. If you need some more ideas, check out last month’s episode! I shared a long list of different types of indoor activities to keep your dog active and entertained. I’ll share a link to it below.
4. There are also products you can test to help keep your dog more calm during nights with fireworks!
One you might’ve heard of is an anxiety wrap– like a ThunderShirt! These wraps give your dog a soothing pressure that helps soothe their nervous system. Calming treats or supplements may also be helpful, although I suggest you take vet recommendations for your dog! There are also nerve-soothing toys like The Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid, which includes a heat pack and pulsing heartbeat to simulate cuddling up to a littermate.
Overall, try to be mindful of the upcoming fireworks! When you can pre-plan, like on the 4th of July, make sure that you take some extra time to do so. Due to fireworks it’s the single busiest day of the year for lost dogs– so it’s crucial that you’re doing what you can to protect your best furriend.
This blog is from a segment on Frankie’s podcast, Wag, Wander, Repeat.! Thanks for reading it! Please feel free to leave me any of your thoughts or questions in the video’s comments.
P.S. To keep your dog safe this firework season, you can also rely on Dogs of Tucson!
Every year, we create a safe space for local dogs to spend their time over the 4th of July. They can enjoy overnight care with 24/7 human company in a safe space. They’ll have their best furriends to keep them company, an enclosed porch to go potty, and a comfortable place to sleep. They’ll have space to run, play and socialize, as well as time to rest, get affection, and sleep when they’re ready.
Not to mention, we’ve got great enrichment ideas to keep them distracted and give them some mental exercise! Our team is ready to keep them entertained, with peanut butter flavored bubbles, dog-friendly TV, agility equipment, and more.
Get in touch with them directly to book a staycation for your dog!