Dogs & Fireworks: Too much, Too Loud, Too Long: 10 Steps to Prepare Your Dog Now

Have you noticed that the fireworks season seems to start earlier every year? All that unpredictable noise and bright flashes can be terribly disturbing for dogs. Maybe that describes your dog...

Why do so many dogs panic at the sound of fireworks?

Why do they often make desperate attempts to find relief by escaping? Even putting their safety in peril...

What can we do to meet our responsibility to protect our dogs from physical and emotional harm?

• Fireworks are a sudden and overwhelming blast to a dog's senses...too much to process
• Fireworks go on and on and on without a predictable beginning or end...too long to endure
• Fireworks offend a dog's sensitive hearing. Each loud blast is followed by another one with no time for startle response recovery...too painfully loud

As a compassionate dog parent, you're committed to protecting your sensitive dogs. They trust that you will keep them safe. 

To help you guide your dog smoothly into fireworks season, here's a list of  10 Things To Do Now So Your Dog Is Ready For Fireworks.

1. Up-to-date ID Tag on a slip-proof collar or harness
2. Up-to-date Microchip and current photos of your dog
3. Ask your veterinarian if medication is appropriate for your dog
4. Set up an indoor, escape-proof Safe Haven
5. Read and respond to early signs of stress
6. Plan supervised potty breaks so the dog is never alone outdoors during fireworks
7. Let the dog hide but keep checking on how the dog is coping
8. Use the comfort and calming strategies that the dog responds to the best
9. Ask visitors to cooperate with your safety plan for the dog
10. Minimize the noise with a white noise machine, a box fan, or soothing music.

Remember, take nothing for granted.  Fireworks are NOT normal and your dog's reactions won't be normal either.

Prepare and be proactive.  Keep a closer-than-usual eye on how your dog is doing. Have a safe haven prepared for your dog where he or she can wait out the fireworks.