How to Safely Celebrate July 4th With Your Dog
Jun 21, 2021
HOW TO SAFELY CELEBRATE FOURTH OF JULY WITH YOUR DOG
Fourth of July Dog Safety Tips and Fun Things to Do With Your Pup
Is a holiday even a holiday if your dog isn't included? Your Independence Day plans aren't complete until you've looped your dog in on the fun, and with this holiday in particular, a big part of planning is making sure your pup will be safe and not experiencing any stress or anxiety that can often happen for pets on July 4th. With that in mind, we've gathered some great tips for celebrating Fourth of July with your dog. Read on, pup-parent.
Have some friends over.
Inviting over your dog's best pup-pals (and their humans) is a great way to spend Fourth of July. You'll have a safe environment where dogs can beat the heat inside if they need to, and you can hand-pick the guest list to be sure everyone on it gets along.
If you have a backyard, set up a little pool, sprinkler, or hose to help dogs cool off while they have some fun. When you're planning the menu, include a dog-friendly, USA-themed cookie spread to go along with the people food. The humans will love it, and you'll be every dog's new best friend.
Remember that a group of other dogs and humans can get overwhelming for some pups, even if they know everyone there, so keep a close eye on your dog and be sure they have a safe, calm place to get away if they need a breather.
Get out to the great outdoors.
If out getting active is more your dog's vibe, celebrating the Fourth of July by getting out into nature is a great option that feels even more special when you're celebrating the beautiful place you call home. A fun hike or quiet day-trip to an outdoor getaway is an especially great option for dogs who get really anxious when loud music or fireworks start up during the festivities. Bring along a Fourth of July dog treat to help you feel like you're marking the occasion and to turn the photos of your adventure into great holiday mementoes.
Get out to the great outdoors.
If out getting active is more your dog's vibe, celebrating the Fourth of July by getting out into nature is a great option that feels even more special when you're celebrating the beautiful place you call home. A fun hike or quiet day-trip to an outdoor getaway is an especially great option for dogs who get really anxious when loud music or fireworks start up during the festivities. Bring along a Fourth of July dog treat to help you feel like you're marking the occasion and to turn the photos of your adventure into great holiday mementoes.
Heading to the fireworks? Let your dog chill at home.
If you're planning on going out to take in Fourth of July fireworks, let your dog stay safe at home. Even dogs that are normally cool, calm, and collected will often have really adverse reactions to the loud and unexpected noise of fireworks, and in general, it's a chance not worth taking. Each year, so many pups get scared and manage to escape and run away, and even if that doesn't happen, the experience won't be fun for your dog.
Instead, plan ahead to include your dog in the holiday before you head out. Order a Dog Bless America Cookie Box and maybe a festive bandana or other cute props, and take some fun photos. Make sure you take your dog on a walk or play a solid round of fetch so that they are tired out when you leave, and ready for a solid nap. Shut the windows, and even turn on the TV, a sound machine, or a radio to drown out any far-away fireworks noises. Your dog will be safe and happy while you're gone, and excited to welcome you home.
Keep it simple.
In the end, your dog is pretty happy just to spend time with you. If you know that Fourth of July is a tough day for your pup, it might be a great time just to settle in and stay home together. You can still have fun and celebrate! Order your Fourth of July dog treats and plan a fun evening of learning new tricks and taking fun photos. Keeping your dog's mind preoccupied and focused on earning their favorite treat can help them tune out any noise, and you'll have so much fun just interacting with them and setting up a great shot for your Instagram (because hey, they're cute, and the world can always use more dog photos).
Depending on your dog, having a cozy kennel ready and available where they feel safe can really help. Some pup-parents also have great success during the holiday with CBD treats made just for dogs. Talk to your vet about whether that's a good option for your dog.
Keep it simple.
In the end, your dog is pretty happy just to spend time with you. If you know that Fourth of July is a tough day for your pup, it might be a great time just to settle in and stay home together. You can still have fun and celebrate! Order your Fourth of July dog treats and plan a fun evening of learning new tricks and taking fun photos. Keeping your dog's mind preoccupied and focused on earning their favorite treat can help them tune out any noise, and you'll have so much fun just interacting with them and setting up a great shot for your Instagram (because hey, they're cute, and the world can always use more dog photos).
Depending on your dog, having a cozy kennel ready and available where they feel safe can really help. Some pup-parents also have great success during the holiday with CBD treats made just for dogs. Talk to your vet about whether that's a good option for your dog.
