When the Fourth of July comes around, there are plenty of parties and picnics to keep people busy for days. But when that special night comes and the fireworks go off, your dog may not appreciate it very much. Dogs are very sensitive to changes in their surroundings and loud noises, so the sudden appearance of loud fireworks can make a lot of trouble for your pooch. There are things you can do that will help to relax your dog and get them through the annual fireworks show.
You Should Be With Your Dog
The fireworks can be a fun family event, but they can also be traumatic for your dog. Unfortunately, you should make the choice of spending the fireworks show with your dog and not at the park. Your dog will need you a lot more than the fireworks will.
Do Not Change Your Routine
Your dog can sense changes in your regular routine, so you should just do what you would normally do on the night of the fireworks. Changing your routine can bring anxiety to your dog that will make the situation worse.
Play Calming Sounds To Drown Out The Fireworks
A couple of good ways to distract your dog from the loud noises is to play white noise or soft music. If there is a particular type of music your dog enjoys, then play that at a reasonable volume and the fireworks will become background noise. Some pets and their owners have favorite movies they watch together. The night of the fireworks would be a good time to watch that movie.
Close The Windows And Curtains
As long as you have air conditioning, then it is a good idea to close the windows and your curtains to help muffle the sounds and block out the sudden bursts of light. The lack of outside sounds and lights will make all of your other distraction efforts more effective.
Play Some Games
If you and your dog do not have a movie you enjoy watching, then start playing with your dog to distract them. Most dogs have a pile of toys they love to play with and fireworks night would be a good night to have some quality indoor playtime with the family pet. Fireworks night is a good time to create new games for your dog and maybe introduce a new toy or two for them to get excited about.
Your dog is going to hear the sounds of the annual fireworks show no matter what you try to do. The key is to turn those sounds into harmless background noises and make them inconsequential. By watching your dog’s favorite movie or introducing them to a couple of new toys, you can help to keep your dog’s mind on play and off of the annual fireworks show.
