04/07/2023
It’s that time of the year again! Mica is back to bring dog owners like you, tips to making your dog comfortable for the 4th of July fireworks.
1. Exercise, exercise, exercise. Double the amount (even triple it) of exercise your dog gets in a day. Remember- mental exercise is just as important as physical. Do some training sessions and get that brain working!
2. Don’t make it a big deal. Dogs can read us like books. Your energy is their energy. Don’t coddle them when nervous, allow them to self soothe- it’s crucial for them.
3. Lock doors and set up a safe space for them to be. If your dog is crate trained, cover the crate with a blanket. If you’re going to be home, no need to keep them in the crate, but give them the option. Run a fan or some white noise to drown out the sounds.
4. Desensitize. If you’re going to be home and want to make the most of the fireworks- make it a training session. Everytime they hear fireworks, toss them their favorite treat. Use something high value like hot dogs, cheese, etc. Try to focus their attention onto you versus the fireworks.
5. STAY CALM. This references back to point #2- don’t act like anything is different than your day to day. Your dog may be already anxious- you don’t need to add to it. I can’t reiterate this enough, let them self soothe.
Overall: exercise (mental and physical), allow them to self soothe, (you) stay calm, lock your doors, keep a safe space for them, and train through it if you choose to do so. You got this! 🇺🇸❤️
Mica and I wish you a happy 4th!!
