Fireworks and Fido

July 1, 2020

Celebratory seasons and fireworks sure go hand in hand, don’t they? During the months of July and December, Americans are celebrating Independence Day and ringing in the New Year. The awe-inspiring light shows may be entertaining for us, but they’re terrifying for Fido.

Here are a few tips on keeping your pup safe and relaxed through the festivities!

Secure the Room

It’s completely understandable that you’d want to let your dog roam the house as he normally does. However, it’s not a risk worth taking under these special circumstances. Instead, set up a cozy “panic room” for them to take refuge in. Stockpile the space with soft blankets, their favorite toys, and something that smells like you.

The garage is not a good idea as the door will vibrate and mimic the sound of rolling thunder when fireworks are set off nearby. Canines will tear through metal and break through glass in order to escape a perceived threat, so it helps to secure the outside of the exit with a solid, heavy barrier.

If you have a friend or trustworthy neighbor who’d be willing to babysit, set up a playdate in advance. Your dog will at least have some company, and you’ll have some peace of mind. At the very least, exchange information with someone who lives nearby in case there’s an emergency.

Relaxation Methods

Even if you plan on staying home, your dog may need some extra assistance in managing the fear associated with the explosive noise of fireworks. The good news is, lots of owners have found success with CBD treats and oils as a means of dealing with nervous canines. It’s also been shown to help with arthritic pain and physical discomfort without causing the drowsiness or lack of appetite that prescription medications like Valium do.Check your local Petland for CBD products.

If you’re not sure where to find CBD or you live in a state where it’s not legal yet, Benadryl is another safe choice. Veterinarians recommend administering 1 milligram of Benadryl per pound of body weight, depending on your dog’s specific health requirements, of course.

Hopefully, it helps them close their eyes and take it easy for the rest of the evening.

Update Tags and Identification

Even if your dog never wears a collar, they most definitely should have one at any time that there’s a flight risk. In addition to a rabies tag, you should include two separate tags with your name, address, phone number, and a secondary number if possible.

When animals escape in a panic, it’s not uncommon for collars to get snagged on fences and gates. Be prepared for this by getting your dog chipped. It’s usually only about $20-$30 and ensures that if a good samaritan finds your pet without any contact info, they can still get a hold of you.

In fact, dogs are 2.5 times more likely to be returned to their owners when chipped, and cats are 20 times more likely! 

If your best friend ends up being one of the hundreds of found animals during the fireworks season, they won’t be lost for long.