07/04/2026
A few additional tips:
🐾 Help burn off extra energy during the day with walks, playtime, training sessions, or other activities. A tired dog is often a calmer dog.
🐾 Create a safe, quiet space for your dog, such as a crate, basement, or interior room.
🐾 Turn on a fan, TV, or radio to help mask outside noises.
🐾 Consider using a ThunderShirt or anxiety wrap. If you don’t have one, there are several DIY tutorials online that show how to make a similar calming wrap at home.
🐾 Take your dog out for potty breaks before dark, when fireworks are typically less frequent.
🐾 Make sure your dog is leashed, on a tie-out, or in a securely fenced area when outside, even if they normally have excellent recall or can usually be trusted off-leash. Dogs who have never run away before can panic and bolt when startled by fireworks.
🐾 Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with current ID tags. No tag? Write your name and phone number on duct tape and attach it securely to their collar.
🐾 Consider using a GPS collar or an Apple AirTag for added peace of mind.
🐾 Keep dogs indoors as much as possible during peak fireworks hours. Many dogs who have never run away before become frightened and panic during loud celebrations.
A little preparation now can help keep your furry family members safe, comfortable, and home where they belong. ❤️🐶
Please feel free to share this post with fellow dog owners. Every year, shelters and rescues see a significant increase in lost pets around the Fourth of July, and a few simple precautions can make all the difference.