How to keep your dog or pet stress-free during the 14th of July fireworks

The fireworks on the 14th of July are eagerly awaited by many French people, but they can be a source of stress and worry for our pets. In fact, the loud and unpredictable noise from explosions of fireworks and rockets can scare dogs and make them anxious. In this article, we give you some tips to help your dog stay calm during the festivities.

Why do dogs get stressed by fireworks?

Dogs have very fine hearing, which is twice as sensitive as humans. They are therefore particularly sensitive to loud and sudden sounds such as the detonation of fireworks. This fear is explained by the sensitivity of these four-legged companions to noise. Dogs’ reactions to these sounds range from simple stress to running away through aberrant behavior.

Prepare your dog in advance

It is important to prepare your dog before the event, especially if you know he is sensitive to loud noises. For example, you can have him listen to sounds similar to fireworks, gradually and at a low volume to get him used to it. In this way, he will be less surprised and stressed on the D-day.

Tips to protect and calm your dog during fireworks

Here are some tips to help your dog stay calm during the 14th of July fireworks:

1. Do not leave your dog outside : It is important to keep your dog inside the house to limit the noise for him as much as possible.
2. Close windows and shutters to reduce outside noise.
3. Create a safe space for your dog by furnishing his usual corner with pillows, blankets and his favorite toys.
4. Place a few drops of relaxing essential oils (lavender, chamomile) on a cloth or towel near your dog’s place. However, be careful not to use these oils directly on the animal or in a diffuser, as some oils can be toxic to our four-legged friends.
5. Turn on the television or radio to create a background sound that will partially drown out the sound of the fireworks.
6. Record and entertain your dog with games, treats and hugs to divert his attention from outside noise.

What should you do if your dog is very stressed?

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If, despite all your efforts, your dog remains very stressed and panicked about the fireworks, it is important to consult a veterinarian. He or she may be able to prescribe appropriate medication to help your pet relax.

Tips for the days after the fireworks

After the festivities, it’s important to monitor your dog’s behavior to make sure he hasn’t been traumatized by the event. Here are some tips to ease the transition:

1. Get back to your habits slowlyespecially with regard to excursions and walks.
2. Be aware of signs of stress or anxiety in your dog (shaking, excessive barking, compulsive licking).
3. Consult a professional if you notice that your dog has persistent behavioral problems after the fireworks (such as refusal to go outside or unusual aggression).

In conclusion, the 14th of July fireworks can be stressful for our pets, but with a few precautions and awareness, it is possible to protect them and provide them with a calming environment during these festivities.