Imagine you’re minding your own business and suddenly you hear loud noises, that are similar to gunshots, and strange lights from out of nowhere… what would you do? Run. Correct?
The same logic applies to our dogs. Fireworks are scary to them, and if not properly secured, they will escape and, sometimes, get lost. As responsible dog parents, we do everything we can to make sure our dogs are safe on Independence Day, but sometimes, we end up making our dogs’ fear worse. Of course, we don’t intend on doing so, because we do what we can to help soothe them with the best intentions in mind, but we end up making it worse.
Here are some things we do on the 4th of July that makes our dogs more anxious. Here’s Part 1, in case you missed it.
1. Leaving them alone at home
Dog parents know that they should never bring their dogs to a fireworks show because they’re likely to escape, but then should you leave your dogs home alone? Nope. A dog who’s home alone amid chaos is a destructive dog who will do anything they can to escape. If you want your dogs to be less anxious, please stay at home with your dogs.
You don’t have to be in the same room as them, but if you regularly check on them, they will be less anxious. They know their mom, or dad is home with them and that nothing can go wrong. Also, if you’re home you can make sure your dog doesn’t put themselves in danger. If you’re unable to stay home with them, request a family member your dog knows, loves, and trusts, to be home with them, and if no one’s around, hire a trusted pet sitter. Yes, firework shows are exciting, but your dog’s safety is more important.
2. Coddling, or baby talking
If you naturally don’t baby talk, suddenly starting to baby talk on the 4th of July will raise a lot of questions in your dog’s mind. When you act unnaturally, your dogs notice almost immediately and then they pick up on your fears and concerns. This tells your dog that they have to be alert and watch out for any danger. Be calm, stay calm, and talk to your dog as you normally would on any other day. Act like it’s a normal day and when fireworks start, distract them with toys and treats. Frozen treats work wonders too.
How do you handle your dogs on the 4th of July? Let us know in the comments.
Feature Image Source: Pixabay