Does Your Dog Struggle With Fireworks?

Posted on June 5, 2021 by Weekend Homesteader

Did you know more dogs go missing on July 4th than any other day of the year?

The sounds of fireworks can be terrifying to some dogs., If you go out (to enjoy the festivities) and leave your pup home alone, it may drive anxiety even higher.

Being prepared isn't just for the boy scouts but could make a big difference for your dog.

Every family and dog is different. What works for some doesn't always work for all; however, you never know until you try it! We may not make it go away, but our actions can help and make a difference and reduce your dog's stress and anxiety.

My dogs are highly sensitive to and stressed by fireworks (and thunder storms). We moved into a new house in September, several years ago, little did we know the town fireworks were so close. July 4th came and I felt like I was in a war zone. I knew what was going on, but it was a bit overwhelming, however my dogs did not understand and were completely freaked out. Our first 4th didn't go so well with the pups because we weren't prepared. Last year, we closed the windows, ran the air conditioner, turned on the fans, watched a loud action movie and used CBD oil and all went so much better!!

Here are some tips we have found to help with our dogs that we'd like to share with you to help keep your dog safe and less stressed this July 4th.

Extra Exercise:

On the 4th, plan to give your dog some extra exercise. A tired pup will want to go to sleep early and this can help to make him less likely to react to the booming night-time festivities.

Create Background Noise:

Close the windows, turn on the air conditioner, or a fan (or other white noise), turn on music or the TV. There are many ways to create "noise" inside the house that will help muffle the outside booms. Last year we watched the movie "Olympus Has Fallen," lots of action and noise, and surprisingly it covered the sounds of the fireworks very well.

CBD Oil:

Many pet parents have found success with CBD oil. Whether for daily or situational use, CBD is a safe alternative to pharmaceuticals. For a limited time, Pawsitively Well is offering a special promotion on CBD oil. Get your first bottle for $5, and included is a 30 day, empty bottle, money back guarantee and free shipping.

If you'd like to learn more about CBD for dogs, click here.

We use CBD oil with our dog regularly. For stressful situations such as vet visits, fire works, thunderstorms or other changes in routine, we find a little extra serving of CBD helps to minimize stress, diffuse a situation and keep our pups happy with minimal stress.

Recent surveys show that 1 out of every 10 pet owners have purchased CBD oil for their animals. 52% of these purchases resulted from vet recommendations. Their top reasons for usage included pain (29%), anxiety (32%) and general wellness (29%). (Source: DataTrek) If you haven't tried CBD oil, this is a great opportunity or if you tried it before and didn't see results, you can't go wrong with this opportunity and our money back guarantee.

Provide A Safe Environment:

If you plan to go out for the fireworks and leave your dog alone, ensure that you have created a safe and familiar environment for your pup. Make sure the windows are closed (dogs have been known to jump through screens), utilize background noise, and use a crate if possible.

People will often use essential oils as an option to create a more relaxed environment for their animals, click here to learn more.

We use essential oils a lot in our home, click here to read more about essential oils and your animals.

Your Attitude and Mood Matters:

Animals, especially dogs, are very in tune to their "people's" emotions and energy. If you are feeling stressed, it won't go unnoticed by your dog. So, if the booms are causing you anxiety, expect this will affect your dog. Create a self care plan for yourself AND your dog. Minimize your stress and the effects will be felt by all around you.

If you have not tried meditation, it is very calming for both people and animals. For more information, check out this guided meditation.

Provide Distractions:

Buy your dog a new bone if they enjoy chewing or fill a kong with some special treats (we like to freeze ours). Once stressed your pup will likely ignore the treats, but if timed correctly with noise distractions, a new goody may help further occupy and distract your dog from the booms outside.

Create A Positive Association:

Cut up your dog's favorite treat into small pieces, and every time there is a boom, give your dog a treat. If your pup is food motivated, he will quickly associate his treat with the booms. Again, not all dogs will eat when stressed. We have one like that. She LOVES her food, but when stressed, she has ZERO interest in any food.

You can also practice this ahead of time with recordings of fireworks or thunder. However, if you do, it's important that you give the treat right AFTER the boom, if you do it too soon then your dog will associate food with the boom (sound) and you don't want to do that as it may cause food anxiety.

Stay Close:

Providing hugs and cuddles and being nearby, if possible, will reduce tension and anxiety and hep build your dog's confidence.

Extra Precautions:

Make sure that your dog is microchipped and registered with up-to-date contact information.
Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with tags up-to-date.
Walk the perimeter of your yard to make sure the fences and gates are secure.
Have a recent photo of your dog just in case you need it.

It's best not to take your dog out during the fireworks unless you are positive that he is comfortable. Even the calmest of dogs can sometimes panic when they hear or see those big bangs.

In Conclusion:

Simply do what's best for your dog, but most important, think ahead and be prepared. For my dogs, I use a combination of exercise, background noise, essential oils and CBD oil. If you haven't tried CBD, and want to give it a try then this is the perfect opportunity. For only $5, you can receive for first bottle of oil (money back guarantee) and give it a try.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Email: [email protected] or text 774-826-8118. We are always happy to help with any questions!