Houston – Happy Fourth, y’all!
Independence Day is a time for celebration and fireworks, but for many dogs, the excessive noise can trigger fear and anxiety. According to Pet Amber Alert, thousands of pets go missing every Fourth of July weekend across the United States, many of them scared away by the chaotic sounds and lights.
Our friend Stephanie Bennett, owner of Believe In Dog Training, along with senior trainer Alyssa Renteria, shared expert advice on preparing dogs for a stress-free Independence Day. They emphasized the importance of creating a safe, and quiet environment where dogs can retreat to feel safe.
They also brought Queenie the corgi and Beni the bernadoodle to help. ;)
If your dog might be panicked, scared, or anxious they could exhibit signs of stress
Keeping track of your furry family members
With doors often left open during celebrations and fireworks causing unexpected loud booms, many dogs react by panicking and running away. They say updating microchip information and ensuring pets are properly tagged is crucial to help reunite lost pets with their owners when the smoke clears.
Give your pet a “Zen Den”
Stephanie loves the idea of creating a designated cozy space where they can stay calm. Using elements like soft music (classical, reggae, or soft rock), twinkle lights, familiar scents, and comfortable bedding can help them cope. In their Zen Den they can also be given toys or chewables to keep them occupied.
Go on a “Sniffari”
Before the loud booms start, physical activity for your pups is a good way to prepare them for what’s to come. It allows them to wear themselves out and can reduce stress during fireworks. Allowing dogs to sniff and explore is important as sniffing is a natural way dogs process their environment. Alyssa says at least one minute of nose work can equal to seven minutes of walking.
Calming essentials
Helping your dogs from the inside out might also be a good way to help them this holiday. There are calming products available such as specially formulated CBD items, calming chews, and anxiety-reducing peanut butter treats. It’s important to know that there are currently no FDA-approved CBD products for dogs or any other animals. Bennett points out that natural remedies that do not tranquilize are preferred, although in severe cases, consultation with a veterinarian for medication is advisable. Another helpful product is anxiety vests. These undershirts provide a gentle swaddling effect that can alleviate anxiety caused by loud noises, including fireworks and thunderstorms.
We loved having Believe in Dog in Studio to help remind pet owners how important it is to prepare and protect their furry friends during holiday celebrations.