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Fourth of July and dogs are an unsafe combination
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It is unknown why some dogs are more afraid of fireworks than are other dogs. It is believed that varying levels of socialization and anxiety in dogs may play somewhat of a role in that differentiation. However, it is known that a dog’s senses are undisputedly much more vulnerable than those of a human. What a human may interpret as a stunning display of dazzling lights and festive ‘booms’ can be a most frightening experience for a dog.
Dog’s ears are much more sensitive than human ears. Aside from the fact that loud noises can be quite terrifying to dogs because they are strident, and their cause is unknown, a dog’s hearing is also so incredibly hypersensitive that those loud noises can actually cause him some bona fide pain.
Many dogs can become so frightened from the resonance from fireworks that they will run away, in an effort to hide from the excitement and place themselves at a (safer) distance from their feared noise display.
Dogs who are afraid of fireworks will usually begin to show signs of their fear immediately upon hearing the first “bang”. They may shake, pant, drool, or behave with extreme nervousness, as they attempt to search for a ‘safe’ hiding place. And with all animals being unpredictable, to a certain extent, even the most loving and loyal pets can act out or become aggressive, in self-defense, if they are feeling vulnerable and afraid.
Turning on TV’s or radios are often effective in drowning out external noise or in re-directing a dog’s attention. Snuggling up, letting them know they are safe, may also be effective as well.
When a dog is reacting to fireworks, or if it is anticipated that there will be a Fourth of July celebration within close proximity, it is best to keep the dog inside, with limited access to hearing the firework’s sounds.
The Flower Essence, ‘Rescue Remedy’ has been known to aid in calming and soothing an otherwise anxious or frightened pet. It is frequently used for relieving anxiety in nail trimming, grooming appointments, and veterinary visits, for nervous dogs, but its all-natural, calming effect has also been used to weather thunderstorms and fireworks displays as well. A veterinarian, who may prescribe a mild sedative for extreme cases of uneasiness, should see a dog that has a serious issue with anxiety.
The dangers from the Fourth of July do not stop with fireworks. The aftermath of fireworks usually leaves with it, hot cinders that may have previously been lit but for whatever reason did not detonate. As well, fireworks material, whether utilized or not, is toxic, and if ingested may cause serious abdominal distress and/or fatal poisoning.
Dogs that are not overly sensitive to the sounds of fireworks still may be in danger if they are exposed to backyard sparklers or bonfires. Embers can descend onto their noses or into their eyes, and those sparks that land on the ground can easily wind up burning the bottoms of their paws.
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