Keeping Your Dog Safe on the Fourth of July
This is a PUP-lic service announcement!
Happy Fourth of July to you and your dog!
If you have dogs, you may know that more dogs run away and are lost on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year. The noises are terrifying to them, coupled with the sights and smells of the fireworks. Running away is a defense mechanism that does not work well. As they bolt, more fireworks may be set off, frightening them in the wrong direction, disorienting them, and driving them further away from home.
There are things you can do to keep your sweet furry family members safe. They're mostly common sense, but well worth mentioning if they prevent even one of our dogs from getting lost.
From my own experience and some homework, here are eight things you can do. Feel free to add anything else in the comments for us!
1. Even if your yard is well fenced in, walk your dog with a leash as long as fireworks will be potentially set off in your area. Even small dogs can miraculously leap over high fences or find that ONE area of weakness in the fence to squeeze through when they're panicked.
2. Even if she's leashed, make sure your dog's information tag is on her collar or harness just in case she gets lost. We got our dogs little metal tags with their name and our phone number at Pet Smart. They have a machine that makes them in minutes in front of you. Well worth the cost, time and effort.
3. Keep your dog inside except for when he must be walked. The less he is outside, the less opportunity he has to bolt in fear from fireworks.
4. Let them hide if they need to. If they're under the bed or table, or hiding anywhere else in the house, reassure them and let them feel that it's ok.
5. Have distracting noise from the TV playing, especially if you're leaving your dogs home while you're out for a picnic or to view fireworks. And if they're kennel trained, they'll probably feel safest in their kennel while you're away.
6. And do leave them home. It's just not a good day to share with them outdoors. They're safer at home or with a dog-sitter who knows how to be with them if they're afraid.
7. There are calming essential oils, calming treats, thunder jackets, and even mild sedatives your vet can prescribe if necessary that may help your dog deal with the day.
8. If you can, stay home with them. The best way for them to know they're safe is with you, cuddled up on the couch, away from the festivities. And be calm with them. Don't change your behavior anticipating their fearfulness. That just feeds into it. Just be you with them!
I hope you and your pup have a safe and wonderful Fourth of July!
Comments
Post a Comment