07/04/2026
It's time for our annual 4th of July post. Everyone please stay safe out there!
Every July 4th, animal shelters and rescue groups are swamped with dogs panicked by fireworks! The Independence Day holiday is the busiest time of year for shelters and rescue! Here are some tips to keep your dog safe:
• Make sure your dog is in a safe, escape-proof place! Keep him inside the house, in his own familiar home, where he feels secure.
• Prepare a den for your dog, where he can feel safe. A crate is ideal, if he’s used to one. If you don’t have a crate, cover a table with a blanket or put his bed in a comfortable, secure place.
• Set up a double layer of sound to drown out the scary noises: 1) Turn on a big box fan to make white noise. 2) Also play music. Some people find loud music (such as rock 'n' roll) works well for their dogs. Other dogs respond better to soft, soothing music. The combination of the fan and music can be especially effective.
• Close the curtains and turn on the lights so the flashing fireworks won’t be so bright.
• Tire him out in the afternoon – take him for a long walk, play fetch or tug, or let him play with a dog friend.
• Feed him dinner before the fireworks start. Add some cooked white rice to his meal. A tummy full of carbs can help him rest.
• Take him outside to go potty before the fireworks start.
• Stay home with him – your presence will make him feel more secure.
• Make sure he’s wearing his collar and ID tag!
• Give him a yummy, chewie treat, such as a stuffed Kong, mix his dinner with broth and freeze it in a slow feeder dog bowl, or play a game with him to occupy his attention during the fireworks.
• Put a Thundershirt on him to help him relax.
• Plug in a dispenser or air freshener with the scent of calming essential oils (e.g., lavender) or D.A.P. (dog appeasing pheromone.)
• Remember that he’ll pick up on your mood. Stay calm! Be cheerful! Show him that nothing’s wrong.
• It's fine to hold and snuggle the dog, as long as you stay calm and show him that you're not afraid.
• In some neighborhoods, fireworks are set off for days. If your neighbors play with fireworks, supervise your dog whenever he's outside! Don't leave him in the yard unattended as long as fireworks are going on.
DO NOT:
• Let him outside in the yard during fireworks!
• Take him to a fireworks show (even if you leave him in the car.)
• Punish him – it will make him more anxious.
• Leave him alone – dogs need the security of their humans.
If your dog gets lost, please contact BARK immediately,
so we can keep our eyes open for him!
http://keeshondrescue.org/web/contact/
Please enjoy a happy & safe 4th of July!
