6 Ways to Help Ease Your Dog's Anxiety on the Fourth of July
As many of us pet parents are all too aware, the Fourth of July is a bit of a nightmare. My dog hates the holiday and is currently petitioning to make fireworks illegal. According to the American Kennel Club, she’s far from being alone, as surveys have shown that 50 percent of all canine companions dislike fireworks.
While we can’t prevent the colorful explosions in the sky, we can help our furry friends calm down.
Here are six techniques that can ease your dog’s anxiety during a fireworks show.
Take Your Furry Friend on a Long Walk
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Before the fireworks show starts, take your furry friend on a long walk. Ideally, the exercise will tire your canine companion out.
Also, a 2020 study from the University of Helsinki indicated that "Physical exercise has been shown to have a positive effect on the mood in both dogs and humans.” Now, as a human who suffers from anxiety, I used to resent people who told me exercise would make me feel better. Unfortunately, they were right. And the same goes for your dog.
Distract Your Furry Friends With Treats & Games
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When your furry friend is freaking out, pull out their favorite treats. I don’t know about your pup, but when my furry friend hears the beautiful crinkles of a treat bag, nothing else in the world matters. Not even terrifying fireworks.
While speaking to Scientific American, Ilana Reisner, a veterinary behaviorist, told pup parents to “stock a treat bag” for their furry friends on the Fourth of July.
“Feed one piece at a time to your dog throughout the fireworks to counter condition and distract,” said the vet. “If your dog is willing, make a game of it and ask her to sit, down, 'find it', shake hands and other distracting cues. Freeze a Kong with kibble mixed with baby food. Feed dinner through the toy.”
Don’t Let Your Furry Friend Leave the House During the Fireworks Show
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Unfortunately, quite a few of our furry friends run away on the 4th of July because they are scared. For this reason, you should refrain from taking your dog out when the Fourth of July fireworks festivities begin.
In addition, make sure they are wearing their collar with their name tag, just in case they do escape. It’s also in your best interest to microchip your dog.
Don’t Be Afraid of Putting Your Dog on Medication
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While people may be wary of putting their dogs on antidepressants, they can do the trick. If your vet thinks it’s the right decision for your dog, you should go for it.
Try CBD
CBD may also be a good option for those who are seeking treatment for their anxious pooch. Proponents of cannabidiol believe that it can be beneficial for your dog’s mental health. As of late CBD has been all the rage so you won’t have a hard time finding cannabidiol-infused treats that are up to your dog’s liking. Just make sure to talk to your vet before you give your dog any CBD products.
Listen To Calming Music
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If you are an audiophile, you may want to start sharing your passion for music with your pup. A 2017 study shows that dogs are less stressed when listening to calming music like jazz or soft rock. Just refrain from playing Metallica, as it may have an adverse effect. Unless of course, Fluffy happens to be a huge fan of heavy metal.