Independence Day is well over two weeks away, and even with
quite dry conditions in my area, there are those who have already started
‘celebrating’. This always puts me on
edge, as my dogs are certainly not fond of the noise. I’m not either!
It is very important that we take extra care and
consideration when participating in, observing or just being a ‘bystander’ when
it comes to fireworks. I read numerous
lost pet postings after the 4th of July concerning dogs who have run
off from being scared when fireworks lit up.
My suggestion is to not take your dog with you if you go
somewhere to watch. Keep them home,
inside, where they are safe and cannot run off.
If you need to let your dog out to pottie, make sure you have a secure
fenced yard or have your dog on a harness and leash, with you at the other
end. Even when practicing these
precautions, things can happen. Your dog
still might be able to get out or away.
When a dog is scared and the adrenaline sets in, a dog that normally
wouldn’t scale a fence, just may. Or
your dog may slip right out of the harness.
Do not under any circumstances leave your dog outside unattended when
fireworks are going off.
Plan ahead. Have some
valerian or chamomile treats or medication available to give your dog ahead of
time to help keep them calm. You have
enough time right now to get some ordered or pick up something at your local
health food store or pet store. These
are herbal supplements that are calming and natural. If you have a Thunder Shirt for your dog,
this can help too. Usually I have my
windows closed, as the temps are warm enough to have the air conditioning
on. You can turn on fans and a tv or
radio to make noise inside so the noise outside is muffled. I have neighbors across the street from me
that put on quite a show each year, and there are also many in other close
locations setting them off.
Do not set off fireworks in the presence of your dog; this
will most likely scare them. They could
also get hurt or burned by fireworks in the hands of children or others not
being careful. It is just not a safe
environment to expose them to. I enjoy
watching firework displays, but feel they are better left to the professionals
with me at a safe distance. Part of
being a responsible pet owner is doing what is necessary to keep your dog
protected and out of harms way. Enjoy
your holiday and be safe!
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