It’s common knowledge that dogs are terrified of fireworks and other loud noises. However, like many Americans, throwing a festive Fourth of July party means hosting friends and family, having a barbecue, and capping it off with a beautiful fireworks display. While those things seem fun to us, loud fireworks and raucous celebrations tend to scare the bejeezus out of our furry little pals.
If you’re unsure about how your dog would react to your Fourth of July celebration, there are tips and tricks that you can try to prevent your dog from feeling stressed or anxious. Read on to find out more!
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Give them plenty of exercise - Giving your pup plenty of exercise during the day gets rid of excess energy. Going for a long walk would also help regulate their stress and anxiety levels and set them up for a calm evening before the fireworks start.
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Avoid big crowds - Loud noises and big crowds would be a nightmare for your dog. If you’re planning to go out, consider leaving your pup home. Leave them in a safe and quiet space that they could hang out in. Don’t forget to leave them lots of water!
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Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended - You should never leave alcoholic beverages unattended as they are poison to your pup. According to Wag, even products like rubbing alcohol, antifreeze, and even fermenting bread dough can cause poisoning in dogs. Ingestion of alcoholic drinks can cause toxicity resulting in respiratory failure.
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Try to keep them indoors - Keeping your dog away from the fireworks is a surefire way to keep them safe and calm during Fourth of July celebrations. Don’t wait for the fireworks to start before heading indoors! Make sure your pet is settled down before the loud noises start.
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Create a safe space - In addition to keeping your pup indoors, it’s also a good idea to create a safe space where they can retreat to in case the fireworks become too loud. Confining their movement in a safe space fosters a sense of safety and comfort for your pup. Don’t forget to close your windows and curtains to drown out loud noises from outside.
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Comfort them when needed - Comforting your pup during stressful situations is a great way to keep them relaxed. It’s also advisable to provide distractions that could redirect your pup’s attention from the celebrations happening outside. Some of the best tricks you can try are petting your pup, playing games that stimulate their minds, and giving them treats!
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Consider calming chews - If all else fails, consider calming chews! Calming chews can help your pup relax especially during stressful times. Look for anti-anxiety supplements that foster calm and reduce pet anxiety through the use of natural ingredients. If you’re considering calming chews, check out Healthy Dog World’s soothing soft chews. Healthy Dog World’s unique blend of organic chamomile, organic passionflower, and valerian root help tackle stress, fear, and anxiety so your pet can feel at ease during difficult situations.
Do you have other tips when dealing with Fourth of July celebrations? Let us know in the comments below!
