July 4th Fireworks: An Explosive Combo for Owners and Dogs

It’s that time of year again – July 4. We all love watching the fireworks, the beautiful bursting colors in the sky – the pride of the holiday we are celebrating – the gathering with friends and family for the holiday cookout. It generally starts with a few small fireworks a couple of evenings leading up to the Fourth of July and the evening of is just the most mind-blowing display of fireworks that you always swear is better than last year.

The evening is exciting to us, and even more exciting to the kids in the family. However, there are other members of your family that don’t find this holiday much fun at all. Most dogs can’t deal with the stress of the incredibly loud fireworks and can stress themselves to the point of death….literally. A story published back in 1998 on LubbockOnline.com from a LA Times-Washington Post News Wire reported cases of dogs hanging themselves on their chains from trying to jump their fence due to the noise from the fireworks! It’s horrible to think about but that’s the reality of it. I don’t keep my dogs outside, nor do I agree with it, but many people do. This is one holiday when you shouldn’t have your dog outdoors.

The bottom line is most dogs are absolutely terrified of the loud noises. They panic and can cause serious harm to themselves and can also cause harm to others. Frightened dogs can and will bite out of fear. Also, reports of lost dogs during the Fourth of July festivities also increase because they run to try to escape the noise. The Humane Society highlights a pet who managed to get out of the house and run for dear life, only to be found dead later. The poor thing was hit by a car.

To protect your pet on the Fourth of July, The Humane Society of the United States has these precautions to share with you:

* Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays.

* Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects—even death—in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.

* Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you’ve removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you’re attending Fourth of July picnics, parades, and other celebrations.

* If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.

* Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn’t leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.

* Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

* If you plan to go away for the holiday weekend, read our information on Caring for Pets When You Travel.

Also, please take a look at some products that can help with anxiety, such as Thundershirt and Canine Calm.

Please take the time to prepare yourself and your pet, so we can all have a safe holiday.