Fireworks and Your Dog

Happy 4th of July!

Last Saturday night, while babysitting for my granddaughter and dog sitting for the family dogs, a nearby park celebrated the 4th of July fireworks!  While we searched above the trees for a glimpse of the fireworks with our granddaughter, we failed to notice for the first 5 minutes or so that one of the dogs, Prince, was just beside himself. 

We now know he’s terrified of loud noises - including fireworks.  Without a Thundershirt, we cuddled him close and calmed him until they were done.  He seemed better until the middle of the night when my granddaughter was woken up because Prince was shaking so hard the entire bed was shaking!   As if the fireworks were not enough, there was a thunderstorm that night!   Needless to say, there were some blurry eyes the next day and a tired little girl and dog.

Please note that many dogs run in fear and are lost during the 4th of July firework celebration.   It may not be a good idea to take your dog to the 4th of July Fireworks display – if your dog becomes fearful he/she could run away.  

Be aware of the fireworks in your area – the firework displays are happening several weeks before the 4th of July in many communities.