Warm temperatures, cooling ice pops, giant packs of hotdog buns on sale—it’s that time of year again! The 4th of July is coming up, so you’re seeing everything in red, white and blue. And, of course, the celebration wouldn’t be complete without fireworks! While fireworks may elicit warm and fuzzy feelings of summer and patriotism in you, they might elicit terror and panic in your dog. It’s no revelation that many dogs are scare of fireworks—your pup is probably one of them. Here are some simple tips and tricks to keep your dog from experiencing stress and anxiety on this festive occasion.
![Dog with American Flag in His Mouth Might Be Scared of Fireworks | Vitacost.com/blog]( "Dog Scared of Fireworks? Learn How to Keep Him Calm")
1. Desensitize them early
This method only works if you have a young dog. If you expose dogs to certain stimuli, such as fireworks, while they are young, they are much more likely to see it as unthreatening and won’t dive under the bed when the first boom happens.
2. Associate the noise with something positive
If your dog is past the point of desensitization, try pairing the firework noise with something positive. Have a mini firework show of your own and give him a festive homemade dog treat whenever a loud pop goes off. Just be prepared with a big bag of treats once the real show happens!
3. Give your dog a workout
Tiring out your dog early in the day will ensure that he doesn’t have too much energy to expend when he starts to get anxious. Give him a really good work out, and maybe he’ll sleep right through the noise!
4. Stay close
If you aren’t watching the fireworks, then give your dog some extra TLC. If you stay close, he will feel much more comfortable and be much less likely to dart.
5. Set up a safe room
Set up a nice, closed room or closet with a comfortable bed or blankets, some toys, background noise and a treat or two. Having the radio or TV playing will help drown out the explosive sounds.
6. Buy an anxiety vest
A tight fitting shirt, like a Thundershirt, may help your dog feel comforted and at-ease when anxiety-provoking stimuli come about. It may not work for all dogs, but it might be just what your dog needs.
7. Try a calming concoction
Adding a few drops of Bach Flower Remedies Rescue Remedy to your dog’s water bowl may help him relax and stop gnawing on your brand new couch or shoes. Or perhaps your dog would enjoy chewing on calming treats.
8. Leave your dog at home
No matter what, make sure you keep your dog as far from the fireworks as possible. While he may enjoy a walk during the day, there’s a good bet he will yank the leash and run when the fireworks start. So keep him indoors!