07/06/2024
It's so heartbreaking to see all of the lost & found posts today. Thankfully, some made it home but many did not. I'm posting this now so you can be prepared for next year.
Dogs that normally don't jump fences or stay close to home may be motivated to jump a fence when frightened enough. Once they're gone, it's very challenging to find them when they're in fight or flight mode.
Please keep your dogs inside and/or in a kennel on the 4th of July. I've kept mine on a leash in the house because they were so scared. If you're going out or will be out of town, consider kenneling your dog.
If your dog has to potty late at night, keep your dog on a leash, just this once. A random "boom" and your dog can be lost in an instant.
The next time you go to the vet with your dog, talk to your vet about meds/options for the 4th. You're already there and paid for the time. Discuss options that are right for your dog, your dog's breed and personality. It's better to be prepared ahead of time than hoping for the best on the 3rd or 4th.
If your dog is sensitive to noise, start working on desensitization with a trainer exposing your dog to scary stimulus gradually.
Make sure your dog is microchipped, has a collar with your information on it and even consider getting a Fi Collar that will lead you in the direction of where your dog is heading.
Do these things NOW because the next 4th of July will be here before you know it!
If you have any additional tips for the 4th of July, please add them in the comments.
