Introduction
Fireworks make me nervous. I find their unpredictable nature to be extremely stressful, and even though I know that most of the time they're harmless, I still worry about my dogs getting scared by them. So you can imagine how much more anxious I became when a few months ago, my vet told me that fireworks were also bad for dogs! After doing some research on the subject, it turns out that there are ways we can help keep our pets calm during these loud and scary events—but only if we prepare ahead of time.
Thunderstorms and fireworks can be frightening
Have you ever noticed that dogs are scared of loud noises? Dogs can be frightened by thunderstorms, fireworks, and other loud noises. Dogs are sensitive to sounds that we do not hear as well. This is called “hearing”.
Dogs have a lot of different ways to hear things: they have a sense called smell which tells them where things are; they also have eyesight, so they know who people are too! But did you know that dogs can hear all kinds of things?
Dogs are more sensitive to sound than people
Your dog has a more sensitive hearing than you do. Dogs can hear sounds that we humans cannot, especially at higher frequencies. They can also hear sounds farther away than us and even quieter ones. In fact, it's estimated that dogs can hear up to 45X more acutely than we do!
We all know how painful fireworks can be for our four-legged friends (you've probably seen videos of dogs running away from the noise), but did you know that it may actually be physically harmful? Due to the loudness of fireworks and their frequent use during celebrations such as New Year's Eve or Independence Day, this could lead to tinnitus (ringing in the ears) in your pup if left untreated.
Signs of distress in dogs
If you’ve got a dog, it’s likely they’re as excited about July 4th as the rest of us. They probably also want to help with your fireworks-related preparations. Sure, running through the house with sparklers isn't exactly what you had in mind, but if your pup is doing it joyfully (barking and wagging their tail), then go ahead and let them play.
If they start acting out of character though—growling, howling, panting heavily or trembling—it's time to take some precautions. Dogs can become extremely fearful and anxious around fireworks. This reaction could manifest itself in any number of ways: urinating or defecating on themselves; digging holes; chewing objects like furniture; shaking uncontrollably; even howling loudly for hours at a time (or at nothing).
Keep pets indoors
It’s important to keep your dog inside during the fireworks. They will be frightened and confused by the loud noise, and they might run away or try to attack other dogs.
Keep them safe in a room where they can see what’s going on outside (if you have a window) but won’t be harmed by the explosions. Close all doors and windows so that if you do have an indoor-only cat or dog, it does not escape out of fright or curiosity. Make sure that there isn't anything around for them to play with – this will help prevent any injuries from chewing on something sharp before you get home!
Provide a safe, dark hiding place
Whether the dog has a fear of fireworks, or simply dislikes loud noises in general, it's important that you provide them with a safe, dark hiding place. Ideally, this hiding place should be one that your dog feels completely comfortable in and can feel safe in. For example: is there a closet where they like to go? Does it have hardwood floors? A rug? How about their crate? It's not always easy to know what will make your furry friend feel most comfortable but giving them options is important.
In addition to providing a dark and quiet space for your pets' comfort during fireworks season (and beyond), you should also consider keeping windows closed if possible; not only will this help keep pets from trying to escape from their homes during noisy events but also from getting startled by sudden bursts of light outside their windows at night (if you live close enough). If this isn't an option for whatever reason—for example if someone else lives with you who might open up windows on purpose just because they enjoy hearing explosions as much as I do—I'd recommend setting up some sort of screen so at least some soundproofing takes place between indoors and outdoors! Finally: don't forget about other animals! If there are dogs sharing space with yours then give them somewhere similar too!
Play music or turn on the television for distraction
So, you’ve got yourself a dog who just isn’t interested in fireworks. Here are some things that might help:
Play music or turn on the television for distraction. You can turn on any kind of music; classical, rock, whatever works for you and your pet. If they like it, they won’t be bothered by the fireworks at all!
Don't use the television because it will make your dog think that they are in a scary place (like an airport or train station).
Provide plenty of exercise before the event takes place
One of the best ways to help your dog get through a fireworks display is to provide plenty of exercise before it takes place. A tired dog is much calmer than a bored or excited one, and many dogs are naturally anxious when they hear fireworks. Running around the yard with your pup can be an excellent way to keep them distracted and less anxious during the big night. If you don't have time for a long walk, take him on a quick jog around the block (or even just down the hall) so he has something fun to look forward to after he's been indoors all day!
The final tip I'll leave you with is this: exercise helps keep both humans and dogs relaxed—and when we're calm, we're better able to deal with stressors like fireworks displays! So if you're feeling overwhelmed by all these tips, try taking some deep breaths yourself; chances are good that doing so will help your pup relax as well.
Talk to your vet about medications that might help an anxious pet
For pets that have extreme anxiety, you can talk to your vet about medications that might help.
Some drugs are used to provide short-term relief, while others are prescribed long term.
Never give your pet any medication without the supervision of a vet.
Don't let fireworks frighten your dog
If you have a dog, there's no doubt that you've seen him or her flinch at the sound of thunder. Dogs are very sensitive to loud noises, and it's not uncommon for them to become stressed and anxious when they hear fireworks on the 4th of July. In fact, dogs may even run away from home in a panic if they're frightened by fireworks.
For some dogs who are especially scared of firecrackers or gunshots, it may be best to keep them inside during this time of year—if you can manage it! If your dog does run away when he hears fireworks in the distance (or even if he doesn't), there's an easy way to help him feel more comfortable: play music! Playing classical music through speakers should soothe most dogs' nerves after hearing explosions from afar. This is because classical music tends to have fewer highs and lows than other genres do—and as such it won't agitate as much as other types of music might under similar circumstances—so try playing some Mozart before setting off any rocket-shaped explosives around your pup!
Conclusion
If you’re worried about your dog being scared of fireworks, talk to a vet. They can help you find the best medication for your pet and give you tips on how to be prepared for whe
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