How to Help Your Dog Through Fireworks

Helping Your Dog Through Fireworks

"6. Comfort your dog if that helps
LOSE that idea that there’s something wrong with comforting your dog, if that’s what your dog wants. Helping a dog through a tough time is not “coddling.” Assess what is most helpful to your dog: a cuddle, food after every thunder clap, some lap time, sweet talk, being in their crate with a food toy, or hiding by themselves in a secluded place. Then help them do it."—Eileen Anderson

If you haven't already, today is the day to make a 4th of July plan for your dog. This article by Eileen Anderson outlines 6 Ways to Prepare Your Dog for Fireworks. Most lists cover how to keep your dog safe on noise-intensive holidays (very important), but Eileen goes a step further and explains how we can help our dogs feel safe (also, very important). If you don't have time for the other items on the list, number 6 is easy and foolproof, "Comfort your dog if that helps."

Helping your dog when they are afraid will not reinforce their fear. Comfort means different things to different dogs—some dogs seek us out, while other dogs want a small dark space. As your dog’s best advocate, find out what makes them feel safe and then make it as easily accessible to them as possible. This can look like:

• Setting up a white noise machine, or playing a white noise video on Youtube

• Covering their crate with a blanket, opening up the closet they like to hide in, or making space under the bed if that’s where they feel safest

• Stuffing Kongs, schmearing lick mats, or breaking out the bully sticks

• Making yourself accessible and attentive to them if they seek you out for comfort

Every dog is different. As your dog’s best advocate, it’s up to you to help them feel safe by making a proactive plan!