Are Your Dogs Ready for the 4th of July?

The 4th of July is incomplete without festivities and fireworks. While your dog may be fine with the festivities, and maybe even have a great time, they may not be prepared for the fireworks. 

This is because the bright flashes, loud sounds coming from multiple directions and the not-so-pleasant smell of explosives can be a lot to take in. 

As a result, it is important to prepare your pet for fireworks, and also, recall the festivities? Some foods may not be appropriate for your pet, and we would cover that here as well. 

Preparing Your Dog for Fireworks

First off, it is as good an idea as any to keep your dog away from fireworks altogether. However, if this is virtually impossible, then here are some tips that can help keep them calm:

• Desensitize Your Dog: this involves getting them used to fireworks. You could play fireworks videos from time to time and give your pup treats and toys during. This allows them to create positive associations. 

• Create a Safe Space for Your Pet: this could be their crate or any space they go to hide when they are scared. 

• Provide Distractions: if your pup doesn’t scare very easy, then toys or tasty treats may keep them distracted sufficiently.

• Close the Blinds: this action prevents them from seeing the flashes that may instill even more fear. 

• Exercise Your Pet: exercising your pet would help tire them out and reduce their energy and anxiety levels. 

• Stay Home: if you can, by all means do stay at home. Having a familiar face and presence around would do wonders for their confidence. 

Do Not Eat List for Dogs

If you would be having a BBQ, here’s a checklist of some foods that your pet shouldn’t have access to: 

• Meat bones
• Alcohol 
• Fruit platters 
• Snack bowls 
• Dessert table
• Raw meat

Conclusion

You would definitely have a more pleasant celebration when you know that the welfare of your pet is in check.