Every year at this time, Floridians gear up for the annual parades, barbeques, and fireworks displays. In fact, the Fourth of July is one of the only three days of the year that it is legal to set off fireworks. That means not only will municipalities be planning pyrotechnic extravaganzas, but likely some of your neighbors will be launching a few rockets. Sadly, the effect of fireworks on dogs is well documented – in short, most dogs don’t like the explosions, and many are downright terrified of the unexplained (to their mind) explosions.

Of course, we want to ease our pet’s anxiety. To that end, here is our annual review of how you can help your dog to get through July 4th without too much trauma.

Dogs react to many aspects of fireworks – they may be spooked by the noise, the flashes of light, and even the sulfur smell. But by far, the most challenging hurdle for your dog is the loud explosions. A good rule of thumb is that if your dog is scared of thunderstorms, fireworks are likely to cause stress.

Here are tips to safeguard your pup during the July 4th celebrations:

  1. Desensitize Them Beforehand: In the days leading up to the fireworks display, play fireworks sounds on your TV or radio at an appropriate level. give them treats and pay them lots of attention while these noises are playing, associating the sound with happy things.
  2. Don’t Make Them Watch the Show: Don’t take your dog to any fireworks celebrations, and if your neighbors are setting off fireworks, keep the dog indoors. There is no reason to expose them to the stressor needlessly.
  3. Expend Their Energy: Take your dog for a long walk or play a vigorous game of fetch before the sun goes down. Allowing them to run out their energy will make them feel calmer and less likely to have energetic responses to the noise -they may even sleep through it. Ensure they are leashed appropriately so that if someone sets off a firework during the day, they won’t run off startled.
  4. Give Them a Safe Space: Most dog owners have already established a safe haven for their dogs, typically used when they have visitors or host a party. This may be a kennel, a favorite dog bed, or even just a room where your dog is comfortable. Before the fireworks begin, settle your dog in their safe space with their favorite toys and treats and shut the door.
  5. Create White Noise: You can lessen the impact of any firework noise by adding white noise to your dog’s safe space. A white noise machine is a great option but not necessary. You can play familiar music, turn on a fan, or turn on the television set to help your dog cope with the outside noise.
  6. Stay With Them: If you don’t have any special plans for the Fourth of July, stay at home with your dog during the celebrations. Comfort them, pet them, sit with them and let them know that everything is ok and that they are safe.
  7. Make Sure They Have ID: Whether your dog has ID tags or is microchipped, these steps to protect them are important just in case they bolt when startled.

Enjoy your holiday, but don’t forget your dog. Keep these steps in mind, and you will help him get through the displays with minimum fear.

Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training is a professional dog training and obedience school located in Bradenton, Florida.