The 4th of July may be the least favorite holiday of our canine companions, as many dogs are terrified by the unexplainable loud booms and bangs produced by fireworks, but there are plenty of things you can do to help your dog.
Many anxious hounds may fly the coop, according to the Christian Science Monitor, explaining why more lost dogs are turned in to shelters on July 5th than any other time of year. Dogs have extremely good hearing and sensitive ears, and loud noise is difficult for them to tolerate. And because July 4th falls on a Thursday this year, many fireworks shows will spread over three consecutive nights.
Dr. Melissa Bain of the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine's Clinical Animal Behavior Service, explained to the Christian Science Monitor that while some dogs don't seem to mind the noise, others will bark, whine, howl, cower or run into furniture and walls.
Dr. Kate F. Hurley, now director of the Koret Shelter Medicine Program at Davis' Center for Companion Animal Health, said that she's even seen some dogs jump through plate glass windows when the fireworks went off. She's helped handle dogs that jumped fences, slipped through their leashes and broken through doors out of pure fear.
Experts say that there are things you can do to help your dog during this potentially traumatic holiday. They advise taking a walk with your dog before sundown, and plan on staying at home with your pets when shows are scheduled to start nearby. Keep doors and windows closed during the shows and turn on anything that will produce a soothing white noise barrier, from television to music and fans.
Just sit near your dog and don't force them to cuddle, as it may turn some animals aggressive. In case your dogs won't eat, have treats nearby, and make sure to get an ID tag or microchip for your dog with updated information in case they run away.
If a dog gets lost, Janet Winikoff, director of education for the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County in Vero Beach, Fla., says that owners should check shelters up to 60 miles around, as when dogs get scared, they tend to run far. She added that social media can be used to help find lost pets.
Keeping them as distracted as possible with favorite toys, treats and plenty of white background noise can always help prevent any runaways.
