Stay home:

Keep your dog at home. Ensure that the windows and doors are closed. Resist the urge to take them out for Independence Day festivities. Instead, stay at home to keep your dog away from the noise in a safe and sheltered place.

Walk your dog before the fireworks begin:

Take your dog out for a long walk before the sun sets to avoid the loud sounds. Secure your dog with a leash before you set out of the house for a walk.

Tire your dog:

Before the fireworks begin, engage your pet in some rigorous activity. Play catch, toss a Frisbee or visit a dog park to play with friends and let her get tired. If you are lucky, your dog will fall fast asleep before the fireworks begin.

Comfort and love:

Comfort your dog by petting her with long, slow, and firm strokes. It is extremely soothing and comforting for your pet. A loving touch has no substitute and love is a true healer.

If you get frantic and keep repeating in a high pitch, "Its ok," it may send a message to your dog that there is actually something to be afraid of, adding to your pet’s anxiety levels. Instead, do your best to be calm and reassuring.

Create a safe place to rest:

We recommend that you make a safe space for your pet, which would calm and keep him away from all the noise. Dogs love dens so make something that is like a cave that gives a sense of safety for your beloved pet.

Set up this quiet place away from any windows or in your home’s basement. Use a crate where your pet can cuddle up and feel more protected.

Thundershirts:

An anxiety vest can work for some dogs. However, you also need to be alert even if your dog has one. Pay attention to your pet and be vigilant to how they are reacting to the sound of fireworks.

ID collar:

Ensure that your dog has an ID collar, such as the TrustSpotter tag offered through TrustedPals, with the current details connected to it. Also, there should be no rips, tears or defects in the collar or leash.

Your dog should also be microchipped and have a GPS device. If your pet escape, he can be returned home safely. 

Familiarize your dog with the sound of fireworks:

Try playing sounds of fireworks so that your pet gets used to hearing these sounds. You can play a video too with fireworks. But, take care that the volume isn't too high for your pet to show signs of stress like panting or trying to hide.

You can keep varying the volume and use different sounds / recordings to help build their tolerance to these sounds.

Consider hiring a trainer:

If fear is constant in your pet's life, consider consulting a trainer or behavior consultant to desensitize your dog to loud sounds.

Behavior modification can be tried but, under the guidance of an animal behaviorist to reduce anxiety by attaching the fireworks with something positive.

Don't shelter your pets too much, start exposing them to different sounds, and environmental stimuli. 

Approach a vet:

If nothing else seems to work and your pet's anxiety levels are still high, consider consulting a vet, so that you can talk about some medication to soothe the anxiety.

You can also try therapeutic treatment. You should ensure that you have dog medical insurance.

Should you need comprehensive dog health insurance connect with the TrustedPals team. We are always happy to assist and guide you with choosing the right coverage options for your pets.