Fourth of July Help
Fourth of July is coming up!  Or as animals might call it, âThe End of the World Dayâ.  Some dogs are fine with it, some are terrified, and all levels in between. Remember if you go out, shut windows and leave pets inside.  Here are a few tips that can help make that evening less frightening. Try to tire your dog throughly before the main activities with a long draining walk. For the mildly scared dog, as soon as the fireworks start happening, try to show your dog you didnât notice or care. Dogs look to us for a reaction and can sense/smell our confidence (or worry). Donât look at your dog directly right after (that would be you expecting a reaction and saying to your dog âdid you hear that too?). Instead, slack your posture, settle back, and make every effort to show you are unconcerned. If your dog starts pacing, call your dog calmly to a spot and tell them calmly but firmly to lie down and stay. Restricting movement that way helps them from making themselves more anxious. It also builds confidence in them to know you are in control because you are telling them to do something you normally would. The voice tone should be quiet, flat, and even, just like a parent calmly giving instruction to a child. Resist giving constant physical affection if they are scared, as that can be a nervous behavior from you, and in essence it means you are âtryingâ to reassure them rather than being in control. Try not to say âitâs okâ unless your voice is perfectly calm and even, because that phrase tends to bring with it a fearful intonation and connotation. If they are just mildly nervous and get comfort from being next to you, a small amount of affection is fine, just donât overdo itâthat makes the situation a big deal and rewards their anxiety. If they need a distraction, have a yummy bone handy, but if theyâre very scared they might not accept it. If theyâre terrified, give them a safe spot like a crate or bedroom, close all windows, and put on the TV or some relaxing music, something that helps drown out a little of the outside noise. Some people sedate their dogs, some try the thunder vest (varying results), and that may help depending on the level of anxiety. I prefer a natural calming agent such as cbd treats/oil if I recommend anything, as sedatives can have the opposite of the desired effect depending on the dog. Above all, stay as calm and relaxed as possible. It is completely fine if you ARE worried, mainly focus on what the body language of calm LOOKS likeâŚ.relaxed shoulders, even breathing, focusing on something other than your dog, as if it was a normal day or evening. Let your dog know that no matter how scared he is, youâre not bothered, worried, or anxious. Be STRONG for your dog. Be their COACH rather than their teammate in these moments. Let them know YOU are brave and not concerned (even if you are).  They wouldnât know youâre worried about them, they will think youâre worried because of the noise, which means you are no longer their protector. How YOU feel and act makes all the difference to them. As hard as it might be to stay calm, the best way you can comfort them is being their calm stalwart leader. Have a safe and happy weekend!
Extra articles that can help:
Calming Touch
Be Braver Than Your Dog















