Scottsdale Dog Walker | Scottsdale Pet Sitter | Scottsdale, AZ

There are more lost dogs during the 4th of July Holiday than any other time of the year.

For most Americans, we love to celebrate the birth of America with the traditional fireworks display.  However, as pet parents, we must take the proper precautions to protect our pups.  The sound of fireworks can be horrific for most dogs – The LOUD squeal, followed by an enormous BOOM or series of POPS, will typically trigger the flight instinct for most dogs.

Unlike thunder, fireworks are closer to the ground and are even more sudden to the unsuspecting canine.  A dog can often sense a storm brewing and be somewhat prepared for a thunderstorm.  But the sudden burst of explosives can trigger a fear we may not even be able to imagine.

Tips to protect your dog:

1.  NEVER bring your dog along to a fireworks display.  It’s best to leave them home in their safe place where they will be less stressed.

2.  Tire your dog out as much as possible on July 4th, especially later in the day.  An extremely tired dog will not have the energy for digging, chewing, breaking it’s collar, etc., and will be less likely to escape.

3.  Mask the Sounds.  Create as much sound as possible.  Turn on the TV, radio, fans, anything to create noise.  This is very underrated.  When we are pet sitting for our dog clients, we do this throughout every home.  Anything you can do to mask the sounds of the fireworks will help your dog tremendously.

4.  Eliminate the escape route.  Keep the doggie door closed.  Even though some panicked-stricken dogs have been known to chew through their doggie doors during a fireworks display, keep the door closed for the night.  Also make sure the yard has a secure fence with a locked gate if possible.

5.  Plan for the worst.  Keep your dog’s collar on at all times.  Make sure your current information is listed on the tags.  Have your dog microchipped and spayed or neutered.  Keep current pictures of your dog in the case you may need to create ‘Lost Dog’ flyers.

Thanks for caring!

Tim Heise
– Certified Pet Care Specialist
Absolute Pet Care, LLC
Scottsdale, AZ
AbsolutePetCareAZ.com