- Stay indoors or get away from it all
It is very important to keep your pets inside during fireworks. This helps reduce their exposure to the sounds, plus will prevent them from running away. Turning on a radio or television helps provide white noise and distraction.
- Talk to your vet about possible medications
Talk to your veterinarian about medication if you know your pet is upset by the festivities. There are a variety of choices that could help treat your dog’s firework phobia.
Melatonin. This over-the-counter supplement is widely available. When using melatonin for anxiety, pet parents report differing levels of relief. Just talk to your vet first.
- Give your dog lots of snuggles
A common myth has it that if you pet your pup during an anxious episode, they’ll feel more afraid. However, calmly soothing and reassuring your dog is fine as long as you avoid loud exclamations or frantic movements. So cuddle away!
- Invest in a pressure wrap or vest
These tight-fitting vests apply sustained, comforting pressure to your dog’s body.
- Prevent escapes
More dogs go missing over the 4th of July than at any other time of year. The reason? They get spooked. This can happen when you least expect it! Make sure your dog has identification. Even indoor pets can panic and use drastic measures to escape when frightened. Micro chipping your dog is a good defensive step.
