Keeping Pets Safe during the 4th of July Festivities.
Wow, Summer is here!! Warm weather, picnics, gatherings and of course the 4th of July fireworks. Fireworks can be troublesome to pets and may cause all sorts of issues. More pets run away on the July 4th weekend than any other weekend throughout the year. I will outline some ideas to keep your pet safe during the July 4th holiday.
But before I do, I want to give you some signs that your pet is showing fear or anxiety during fireworks or even a thunderstorm.
- Excessive panting
- Yawning
- Drooling
- Aggression
- Pacing
- Restlessness
- Going to the bathroom in the house
- Excessive barking
- Hiding
- Trembling
What can you do to help your pet remain calm and relaxed? Remember, some anxiety can’t be consoled, do your best. If the anxiety is over the top, please stay with them.
Take them out for a long walk before the fireworks start. Some people start pretty early in the day setting off fireworks so be wary, and cautious and make sure your pet’s collar or harness is secure.
Keep your pets indoors during the Fireworks, even if your pet spends most of his time outside. I understand that you may not want to miss out on celebrations but pets can also hurt themselves indoors and it’s important to protect them.
Every pet reacts to fireworks and loud noises. You need to know your pet before you can help them. Some pets sleep right through the fireworks and may react to thunder or a car backfiring. Know what is best for them, and you!
Get your dog microchipped in the unfortunate event that they do escape. This will ensure that no matter what, they will be identifiable and reunited quickly.
Create a safe space for your pet to hide and feel cozy. Pets will seek refuge when they feel threatened. Put them in a room with their favorite toys, beds and blankets. You can even put a piece of your clothing with them to make them feel safer. If your pet is crate trained, put a heavy blanket over the top to muffle some of the noise. Never force your pet in a crate, it will just increase the anxiety.
Soothing music will help your pet by being a distraction. It won’t deaden the noise completely but will provide a buffer for them. Keep doors and windows closed and blinds drawn to hide flashing lights and muffle the sound.
Some pets will lose their appetite when anxious but trying pet specific treats may help. It may provide a distraction especially if it’s something dang tasty.
Thunder shirts and wraps have been known to help pets with anxiety. Thunder shirts wrap around your pet’s torso snugly and are held in place with Velcro. You can also try the Tellington TTouch wrap which is a less expensive alternative to the thunder shirt. Click HERE for more information about Telling TTouch wraps.
CBD oil is a great treatment for anxiety in pets as well as a pain reliever. There are numerous treats on the market with CDB oil. For more severe cases your vet may prescribe anti-anxiety medications designed for pets. If you are considering medication or supplements for your pet, always consult your veterinarian first.
Benji is the first dog I’ve had that has a slight aversion to fireworks. If he hears one or two, he’s fine but more than that and he’s cautious. Last year, we hung out at home, shades pulled watching Harry Potter movies.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!
Much love,
Joan and Benji