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Paws Off the Panic
July 4th in the US and July 14th in France are around the corner. Fireworks can be thrilling for you but not so thrilling for your dog. Dogs often find fireworks stressful, needing a calm environment. Some planning on your part can help.
Use these tips and consult with your vet now to plan for success for fireworks time. Also remember that there are ways to strike a balance like I found by watching the fireworks through a window (less boom noise for me, bonus!) with my dog on my lap. Get creative.
- Exercise beforehand- Help your dog chill out from being tuckered out. Take your dog on a walk or, if worried about possible fireworks during the day, play fetch with your dog inside the house.
- Avoid the outdoors - Fireworks and dogs don't mix well. Keep your dog inside the house. Some dogs get scared and run off from the sound of fireworks, so safe and inside may be best.
- Comforting space - Plan ahead and set up a cozy spot for your dog whether on his (or your) bed, some favorite toys or blankets, and maybe something that smells like you like a piece of your clothing. If your dog likes puzzle toys, add them to help distract.
- Do re mi - Play some soothing tunes to help distract from the fireworks sounds. You can play calming music here using a generous free trial.
- Calming aids - There are some natural calming aids like CBD treats or anxiety wraps. Check with your vet prior to implementing anything to help plan what may be right for your dog.
- Close for comfort - Perhaps one of the most important things you can do is be close to your dog inside the house during fireworks. I watch the fireworks from inside the house through a window and my dog lays on a blanket on my lap. I turn on the sound machine for buffer noise and play music. This comfort, including my calm energy and voice, makes my dog comfortable during the fireworks.
Use these tips and consult with your vet now to plan for success for fireworks time. Also remember that there are ways to strike a balance like I found by watching the fireworks through a window (less boom noise for me, bonus!) with my dog on my lap. Get creative.