Happy 4th of July!!
It’s a day of family, friends and celebration! But for our four-legged friends, it can be a time of loud scary bangs and strange people in their home space.
Help your dog make it through the holidays happy! Here’s our top tips:
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Prepare somewhere for your dog to hide so they can feel safe.
Make a safe den for them - this can be a dog crate, large box or simply a table covered with thick blankets. The den should be placed away from doors and windows ideally near where the dog normally sleeps.
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Walk your dog during the day
Avoid peak fireworks times so that your dog is indoors when all the action is happening. This can help them to feel safer, and reduces the risk of them running off.
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Make sure they’re wearing an ID tag, and keep them indoors if possible
It’s much safer and more familiar, so try and keep your dog indoors, if possible. Make sure if they do go outside, they have an ID tag on! More pets go missing on July 4th than any other day of the year!
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Behave normally
As hard as it sounds, don’t give too much attention to dogs when they are pacing and showing signs of stress, attempting to calm your pet can make the behaviour worse. However, stay with your pet during firework season as this will provide familiarity;
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Close windows, curtains and doors
And leave the television on or playing some music to help muffle the sounds. Familiar, home noises are better than loud, fireworks bangs.
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Don’t punish dogs showing signs of firework fear
You may find the fear will get worse every year if you do! A little patience and a few adaptions can make the experience much less stressful for everyone.
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Clear the lawn of debris tomorrow!
Ash of the lawn, spilled food and drink and fireworks shells can all be harmful for your dog the next day, a quick clear up can go a long way to keeping them safe.
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