Blog Post: Keeping Dogs Calm During 4th of July Fireworks

Fireworks and dogs are a bad combination! That’s why , the premiere doggy daycare and overnight camp for canines, wants to remind pet owners that many dogs are frightened by fireworks and the fear and anxiety caused by fireworks results in many lost, distressed and disoriented dogs.   

As dogs’ hearing and sense of smell is hundreds of times greater than humans, many dogs react negatively to the sound and smell of fireworks while their owners may be completely unaware of any problem. That's why the Fourth of July holiday is one of the busiest days for animal shelters nationwide as panicked dogs instinctively run for cover.

Responsible dog owners need to take the necessary steps to ensure their four-legged friends are safe and protected during the days surrounding Fourth of July fireworks, when even the calmest dogs can stress and try to escape their familiar yards and homes. 

The most important thing is to keep your dog away from fireworks altogether, if possible. And if you can’t be at home with your dog or provide a safe environment during fireworks, at least make sure your dog is wearing a collar with an ID tag and license. Sadly, you just can't predict how a dog will react.

We also advise dog owners to keep their pooch indoors at night when fireworks can be heard. Even the smaller “personal” fireworks that can be heard and smelled leading up to and after the professional fireworks displays on the Fourth of July can trigger an anxiety attack in some dogs.

Dog owners should close the windows and drapes in their home to guard against the light of the fireworks and will also help muffle the noise. Turn on music or the television to detract from the noise outside. As an added precaution, provide pets with access to a crate furnished with soft blankets and a favorite toy to help ease anxiety.

At Camp Bow Wow, we find that increasing activity – longer walks and more play time – during the day often helps reduce or eliminates a dog’s stress around fireworks.  We have many clients who bring their dogs in just for the day so the dogs can play with other pups at camp and stay active during the day while the owners are at the beach or backyard BBQ. By the time the fireworks begin, the dogs are usually so tired, all they want to do is sleep when they return home.