Fireworks and festivities can overwhelm even the calmest dogs. Trainer Michael Hill shares expert tips to help keep your pup safe, secure, and at ease this July 4th. Wondering how to keep your dog calm and safe this holiday? Here are some vet-recommended 4th of July tips for dogs to de-stress your pet, including extra exercise, calming products and desensitization. Veterinarians explain what medications you can give your dog for fireworks anxiety on the Fourth of July. How to keep your dog calm on July 4th 1. Desensitization If you struggle to find ways to calm your dog during fireworks, desensitization training is one of the best things you can do. This might sound counterintuitive, but try playing fireworks sounds at a very low volume in your home and, over time, gradually increase the volume. Charlie the dog, winner of the most patriotic outfit award, at the 17th annual Fourth of July Pet Parade in Salisbury, Massachusetts, in 2024. Photo: Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images We're approaching the perennial problem — how to keep pets calm as the sounds of July 4th fireworks and revelry ring through their hyper-sensitive ears. The Fourth of July is usually filled with festive, fun activities for humans — but for dogs, the Fourth is filled with fireworks and fear. I used to believe prescription medication for dogs during fireworks should be given as a last resort. But that was because I did not have a dog who was afraid of fireworks. I give my weimaraner Remy a prescription anti anxiety medication before fireworks begin every 4th of July and New Year’s Eve. Preparing your pet for July 4th involves more than just fireworks safety—it’s about ensuring their overall well-being throughout the holiday festivities. One crucial step in safeguarding your pet is considering the use of sedatives. These medications can help alleviate anxiety caused by loud fireworks, ensuring a calmer experience for your pet. When the Fourth of July fireworks go off, your dog may already be hiding under your furniture. Fireworks can be traumatic for dogs. The Fourth of July is coming, the worst holiday for pet parents raising anxious dogs. This is a beloved holiday, and I have decades of happy memories with family and friends. But today, I have dogs, and, let's be honest, the fireworks are a menace. It's not the holiday that I have an issue with; I love my country, I love BBQs, and sparklers are fun. I can do without the fireworks. Fireworks Is Your Dog Afraid of Fireworks? Learn how to Calm Down a Dog During Fireworks.10+ Tips to Help Keep Your Anxious Dog Safe and Calm On the Fourth of July. Learn how to keep your dog calm and safe during Fourth of July fireworks with expert tips for managing fireworks anxiety in dogs. TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) - Almost all dogs get some anxiety from Fourth of July Fireworks. If your dog’s reaction to noise is concerning enough for you to consider medication, here’s what you need to know right now - before it’s too late to take action. Medication helps lots of dogs who get How to comfort dog during fireworks Give your dog some extra exercise before all the mayhem starts. This could be an extra long walk or a few more rounds of fetch. Providing a cozy spot for your dog to relax during the Fourth of July fireworks can help ease their anxiety. If your dog enjoys their kennel, give them treats and toys inside to make them feel safe. How to keep your dog calm during fireworks: Talk to your veterinarian on a possible sedative Consult your veterinarian ahead of time to determine if a sedative may be appropriate for particularly Does your dog's fear of fireworks or thunder require medication? Learn about what drugs are prescribed for noise anxieties in dogs and what you can do. By combining the use of sedatives, a recent vet exam, and thoughtful holiday preparations, you can help minimize your pet’s stress and ensure they have a safe and peaceful experience during the 4th of July celebrations. So so thankful for this beautiful, clean, efficient clinic. All three of my large, rambunctious dogs hate fireworks, but I have a system to help keep my dogs calm during America's loudest tradition. If your dog is afraid of fireworks, don't give them sedatives. Follow these tips and let your dog rest easy this Fourth of July.
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