Pets and Fireworks: 5 Ways to Ease Anxiety

Did you know that more pets go missing over the Fourth of July holiday than any other time of the year?

Lost pet services like Home Again report that more animals end up lost over the July 4 holiday than any other time of the year. Animals become terrified and if they can, may try to get away, ending up lost from its home. They often find the loud, unpredictable noise and bright displays of light truly frightening. Even a seemingly confident dog can tremble and drool at the unfamiliar sounds. Here are some safety tips when dealing with noise phobia, pets and fireworks:

1.  First and foremost, DO NOT leave your pets outside during fireworks displays
2. Don’t change your behavior. Many people feel compelled to baby their dogs when the dog is showing signs of fear. Rather than easing a dog’s fears, however, this often reinforces the dog’s fearful behaviors.
3. Try not to react to the fireworks yourself. If you jump or tense up when you hear fireworks because you are anticipating your dog’s fear, you may make his fear worse.
4. Drown out the sound of the fireworks, turn up the radio or television and keep your windows closed. If the weather permits, a fan or air conditioner (if your dog isn’t afraid of those sounds) can help, too.
5. Don’t push your dog past his comfort zone. Allow him to hide if he feels more comfortable in his crate or under a bed. Don’t pull him out or try to force him closer to the fireworks in an attempt to get him used to the sounds. This may result in an increase in fear.

Noise phobia is a very stressful situation for both you and your dog. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to help get you both through the festivities.

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