Independence Day and your dog

July 4, 6:06 AMAtlanta Dogs ExaminerSandy Weaver Carman

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     "No, thanks...I'd rather stay home." - SWC photo

Usually on Saturdays, this column features fun things to do with your dog.  But since today is Independence Day, a day fraught with perils for dogs, today's column is a departure.  On this Saturday, here are some things NOT to do with your dog:

1. Don't take your dog to the parade.  It's hot, crowded, confusing and stressful.
2. Don't take your dog to the big family barbeque.  An upset tummy from sneaking too many of Aunt Margie's snickerdoodles (on top of the hot dog that cousin Derek dropped, and Grandpa's baked beans, oh yeah and don't forget the three cupcakes that mysteriously vanished) is not fun for your dog, nor is it a fun way for you to spend Sunday - cleaning carpets.  Yuk!
3. Don't take your dog swimming in a busy lake.  This is the biggest boating weekend of the summer, and many of those at the helm don't know how to keep an eye out for things ahead of and around them in the water.  If you're going to the lake, keep the dog as close to shore as possible, and keep your eyes peeled for novice boaters and jet-skiers.
4. Don't take your dog outside with you while the kids light off sparklers.  Sparklers are extremely hot and the sparks can catch your dog's coat on fire.
5. Don't take your dog to any fireworks display.  You'd think this would go without saying, but you'd be shocked at how many people do it!  Dogs don't appreciate the bright lights and big booms, and can become very stressed and frightened.  Even the most loving dog, when scared, can slip out of a collar and run, or can bite anything that looks like a threat, owner included.
6. Don't leave your dog outside while fireworks can be heard, even if it's at a far distance.  Again, this can be very scary to dogs, who don't get the whole "celebrate freedom" thing.  Or maybe they do, and maybe that's why so many dogs go missing during fireworks season. 
7. Don't coddle and console your dog if he becomes fearful.  This actually encourages the dog to be more fearful at loud noises in the future.  If your dog is frightened, be sure there's a safe place, like a crate or favorite bed, and put him there.  The calmer and more matter-of-fact you are about the whole "big booms in the sky," the less stressed your dog will be.  Oh, and this goes for thunder, too.  Don't "oh you poor baby, it'll be ok" unless you want the thunder-phobia to get worse. 

Next Saturday, check back for a bunch of fun things to do with your dog.  For today, remember that your dog loves you and will appreciate missing out on your brand of fun today!

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