Submission by Aaron Jones, owner and certified dog trainer, AJ’s Waggin’ Train
Did you know that more dogs go missing on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year? Loud fireworks can send even well-trained dogs running in fear. With America celebrating its 250th birthday this Independence Day, fireworks displays are expected to be bigger than ever, making it even more important for pet owners to prepare.
If your dog becomes anxious during fireworks, don’t wait until the next holiday to address the problem. Long-term training is the best solution, but there are several simple steps you can take right now to help your dog stay calm and safe this Fourth of July.
Stay Home With Your Dog
If possible, spend the evening at home with your dog instead of leaving for a fireworks celebration. Your presence alone can be comforting. If your dog comes to you for reassurance, offer calm affection, but avoid becoming overly emotional or anxious yourself. Dogs often take their cues from their owners, so speak and act as normally as possible.
Walk Your Dog Before Fireworks Begin
Take your dog for a walk earlier in the day or before sunset. Even dogs that normally aren’t bothered by loud noises can become startled if fireworks suddenly begin while they’re outside.
Keep Your Dog Indoors During Fireworks
Take your dog outside for a bathroom break before fireworks begin, then keep them safely indoors until the celebrations are over. If they absolutely must go outside during fireworks, always accompany them and keep them securely leashed.
Create a Safe, Comfortable Space
Give your dog a quiet place where they feel secure. This might be an open crate, a cozy corner behind a couch or another familiar area where they can relax. Covering the space with blankets can help reduce flashing lights and loud sounds while making the area feel more protected.
Close curtains and windows to reduce outside noise and flashes. Running a washing machine, television, fan or calming music can also help mask the sounds of fireworks. Placing an article of clothing you’ve recently worn in your dog’s safe space provides a familiar scent that many dogs find comforting.
Keep Their Mind Occupied
Mental stimulation can help distract your dog from frightening noises.
Try:
Puzzle toys filled with treats
Short training sessions using commands your dog already knows
Rewarding your dog with a favorite treat each time a loud boom occurs, helping create a positive association with the sound
If your dog refuses food, lower the noise level as much as possible and simply stay nearby until they begin to relax.
Consider a ThunderShirt or Body Wrap
Many dogs respond well to gentle pressure wraps, such as a ThunderShirt or homemade body wrap. These garments can provide a calming effect for some pets. Never leave a pressure wrap on an unattended dog or for extended periods without supervision.
Natural Calming Aids May Help
Some dogs benefit from calming scents such as lavender or chamomile. Choose natural products whenever possible. Avoid candles, plug-ins or heavily scented products that may contain volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, or formaldehyde, which can be harmful to pets.
Talk to Your Veterinarian About Severe Anxiety
If your dog experiences extreme fear during fireworks, consult your veterinarian before the holiday. Prescription medications or sedatives may be appropriate for dogs with severe fireworks phobias. Ideally, your dog will rest comfortably throughout the evening while you continue working on long-term training to reduce their fear over time.
If your dog’s fear of loud noises develops suddenly, it’s also wise to schedule a veterinary exam to rule out medical conditions that may have made their hearing more sensitive.
Update Your Dog’s ID Tags and Microchip
Before Independence Day arrives, make sure your dog’s identification tags and microchip information are current. Even dogs with secure fenced yards can panic and escape when fireworks begin. Up-to-date identification greatly increases the chances of a safe return if your pet gets lost.
Don’t Give Up on Training
Helping a dog overcome a fear of fireworks takes patience. Some dogs improve quickly, while others need more time. Through consistent, positive training, many dogs learn to become far less anxious around loud noises.
If you’d like professional help teaching your dog to become more confident around fireworks and other stressful situations, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help.
AJ’S Waggin’ Train
Cell: (346) 461-3079
Email: ajswaggintrain@gmail.com
Feature photo: by Mike Burke on Unsplash
