Dogs & fireworks: helpful reminders

It’s hard to believe that it’s already the 4th of July. With the slow start to spring it seems like June flew by. I’m personally welcoming the hotter weather and getting to enjoy some time out fishing. With the 4th of July celebrating comes bonfires (if there’s no burn warning), BBQ’s, parades, and of course fireworks. I have two dogs with completely opposite personalities– Heidi is very active and can chase her ball 50 times without tiring out. Wilbur on the other hand likes to lay in the shade and drink his water. Heidi can sleep through the fireworks in Lando while Wilbur shakes and pants the entire time. Did you know that dogs can hear 4 times the distance as humans and they can hear a wider range of sound frequencies? Imagine hearing loud explosions from your house and not knowing where they’re coming from or why. Even though I’d love to be able to explain to Wilbur, “Don’t worry bud, it’s only 4th of July fireworks, it’ll be over soon.” My dog talk isn’t that great so a lot is lost in translation. The next best thing I can do is share some reminders about how to keep your furry friends safe this 4th of July. 
My number one advice is don’t leave your furry friend outside. Even if they usually listen great off leash or you have a super secure backyard--- dogs can suddenly forget their listening skills or turn into Houdini and bolt from your yard if they hear a firework and it scares them. Wilbur will definitely be on a leash the couple days before the 4th and on the 4th. Also, with this point, make sure that your pets have updated contact information on their collar in case they do get out. Micro chipping is an even better way to identify your dog but at the very least, a phone number and name on the collar goes a long way! 
My next advice is to try to tire out your doggo during the day. Go on a long walk, play fetch, do some tricks. Our bigger dog Heidi has a great sense of smell and she loves when we hide treats around the house for her to sniff out and find. When dogs have to use their brain to play they tire out even faster. Heidi can play fetch all day long, but hide a few treats around the house and this will put her down for a nap. If your dog is physically and mentally tired by the end of the day, hopefully they’ll be tired and maybe sleep through some of the fireworks. If your dog isn’t sleepy and is still on edge, you can try to give them a long lasting treat to focus on. If you have a kong toy, you can put peanut butter in it. If you want an extra challenge, put the peanut butter kong in the freezer-- the frozen peanut butter will take longer for them to lick out. You can also try antlers or bully sticks. Mr. Wilbur is a popcorn lover-- pop a bag of popcorn and he’ll come running. You can try to give them some small treats here and there to distract them.   
If all else fails-- sit next to your furry friend and love them and talk to them. They’ll greatly appreciate any reassurances you can give them. If they seem to be panting a lot, make sure they get enough water to stay hydrated. I know it’s hard to see your doggo uncomfortable and scared -- but just being there for them is really the best thing you can do! 
I hope you and your furry friends have a happy and safe Fourth of July! ​