Tips to Help Your Furry BFFs Chill-Out This Fourth of July
- Dorothy Cline
- May 4
- 4 min read
Ah, the Fourth of July! A time for barbecues, fireworks, flag cakes, and family fun. While humans enjoy the vibrant light displays, our pets often do not share the same excitement. Many dogs and cats feel scared and anxious during this bustling holiday because of loud noises and bright lights. Even days before the big boom-boom, our pets can feel the impending doom. Much of their distress is primarily due to their much sharper hearing compared to ours (they can detect sounds from up to four times the distance that humans can).
To your pet, it feels like the world is coming to an explosive end! Unfortunately, a dog or cat's instinct during all the commotion is to either 'fight or flee.' Usually, this results in more animals fleeing. As a consequence, animal shelters often become overcrowded during the July 4th holiday weekend with frightened and lost pets. Animal control officers and dog rescuers find it difficult to enjoy any July 4th festivities, aware of what lies ahead. Each year, animal shelters and rescues nationwide brace themselves for the surge of intakes on the morning of July 5.
KNOW YOUR PET'S STRESS INDICATOR
Dogs show stress differently than humans, and each one will react differently. Even if your dog is sitting quietly, he may be suffering in silence with fear, anxiety, and panic.
Look for these signs;
Panting heavily
Drooling
Shaking
Licking lips
Rapid heart rate
” Smiling” nervously
Hiding
Here are some practical tips to ensure your FURkids have a comfortable and peaceful Fourth of July.
Create a Safe Space
To help your pet feel secure, create a safe area in your home. Select a cozy corner away from windows where your pet won't see the fireworks. Equip this space with their bed, soft blankets, and favorite toys. To enhance comfort, think about playing gentle music, leaving the television on, or using a fan or white noise machine to produce soothing background noise.
There are various calming products designed to help reduce your pet's anxiety. Consider trying calming pheromone sprays. What's a 'pheromone' you say? Here's a great article by Small Door Veterinary Clinic. Read On. Another effective calming tool is organic Lavender essential oil diffusers. All of these products release scents that are comforting to pets and can help create a relaxing environment.
Use Calming Aids and Anti-Anxiety Products.
A distinctive combination of Thiamine and L‑Tryptophan aids in alleviating stress and tension. Also contains Ginger which is beneficial for sensitive tummies, while Melatonin encourages rest and relaxation. Helps your furry bestie sleep through the explosive excitement.
Heavenly Hounds A yummy peanut butter relaxation bar with a taste dogs love. Hemp-free, soy-free, corn-free, wheat-free & zero preservatives. Contains valerian Root and passion flower
Kradle, CBD.
Soft, chewy, and sooo delicious! Made with REAL peanut butter, broad-spectrum CBD has the perfect blend of proven natural calming ingredients with no side effects. If your dog is given a proper dose of CBD oil, you should notice a calmer, relaxed demeanor within 30 minutes or an hour, This is because they need to digest it. If your pup is so stressed that they won't take any treats, you will need to go with the Kradle, Melts. These are a game-changer! They are just as effective as the bars, and they melt on the tongue or inside the cheek. You’ll appreciate the quick-dissolving formula for on-the-go use. Made in the USA with natural flavoring and no artificial colors.
Consulting your veterinarian can also help you identify the best options for your pet's anxiety and individual needs. In addition, weighted blankets or snug wraps can provide your dog with a sense of safety, similar to a warm hug from you. There are many different options, such as Thundershirts
Update All Air-tag or Microchip Information Before the Holiday
Exercise Before
Wear your pet out! Be sure to take your potty walk early, long before dark and before the fireworks begin. If possible, make your outing a vigorous hike, walk, or run so that fatigue sets in before the fireworks come out. Getting your pet active earlier in the day can significantly lower their stress when the fireworks begin. Just remember to return home before the fireworks start to prevent sudden noises from triggering fear.
Stay Calm
Pets are incredibly perceptive and intuitive. They pick up on their humans' emotions. If you feel anxious about the fireworks, your pet will likely sense it as well. Try to remain calm and relaxed throughout the evening. Offer your pet plenty of cuddles, treats, and praise to reinforce that everything is okay. If your pet seems frightened, comfort them gently without overwhelming them, as excessive affection could unintentionally reinforce their fear.
Consider Staying Home
For pets with severe anxiety, staying home during the fireworks might be the best option. You can monitor their comfort levels by being there and providing the extra support they need. Use this time to engage and distract them with puzzle toys, Lickimats, or a paw-per-view movie designed for pets. Some pet-friendly films (ie, 'Beverly Hills Chihuahua' or 'Hotel for Dogs') keep their minds occupied and distract them from the fireworks outside.
While the Fourth of July is a festive time, it's crucial to remember that our pets can easily become overwhelmed by the noise and chaos. You can minimize their stress levels by creating a haven, utilizing calming products, ensuring they get enough exercise, staying composed, and possibly staying home with them. With some preparation and compassion, you can ensure you and your furry pals have a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Let’s keep our beloved companions relaxed and happy while celebrating our independence!
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