Tips for Your Canine on the 4th of July

by Cindy Jones of Happy Dogs Pet Services,
in partnership with JudithBell of Beaujes Dog Training and Boarding

Does your dog go ballistic on the Fourth of July? Like many animals, dogs tend to react as if sudden earsplitting explosions are scary. Go figure! But since you can't explain to them that it only sounds as if the dog gods are very very angry, you may need to find other ways to help your dog stay calm while the fireworks are blasting. Here are a few ideas:

Don't take your dog out and stand directly under the fireworks if she's likely to panic (and she is). Stay at home in the quietest room possible and close the windows. Basements and laundry rooms often make for good, well-insulated spots.

When the explosions start, pull out your dog's favorite toy and get him started on a game. If he's ball-crazy, have several on hand. If he loves to play tug, be sure his tug toy is stashed close by. If your dog's a treat hound, stock up on the good stuff and reward him lavishly for playing the games or obeying commands.

Your dog will be closely attuned to how you're reacting, so be sure to stay calm, cool and unconcerned by the noise. You might even try yawning a bit to let her know that everything is oh-so normal and just a tad boring.

Above all, don't get mad at your dog for being afraid. The mayhem outside is frightening enough; the last thing he needs is to be scared of you too.

Finally, if your dog is still phobic by the end of the evening, consider taking more formal steps before next year rolls around. Professional trainers and behaviorists have lots of helpful ways to reduce your dog's fear. The investment's well worth it, for both your dog's peace of mind and your own.