Fourth of July is about to sparkle upon us again.  What do you think of when this holiday comes to mind?   Hot weather, getting together with friends or family, backyard barbecues, picnics, fireworks.  Yes, to all of the above.  

One image you might not have considered is a great sense of sadness.  The unbearable sorrow from the loss of a beloved pet.  For while we’re celebrating our country’s independence, more dogs run away and are lost or fatally injured than on any other single day of the year.  

Many dogs are extremely frightened by the sound of fireworks.  Some dogs that are only moderately sensitive to this noise may still overreact to the repeated assaults on their sensitive ears.  Add to this the constant turmoil as friends come and go from the house, loud conversations and music are heard, smoke and tempting smells beckon from the neighborhood barbecues, children play and run about, and general commotion of the holiday, and a dog can reach the breaking point and bolt to flee the scene.  

The fact is, a frightened dog will go over, under, through, around almost any obstacle to escape the source of his fear.  Also, a panicked pooch doesn’t stop to look both ways before crossing the street.  The lucky ones will only end up in a local shelter.  

Simply stated, July 4th can become overwhelming for even the most fearless of dogs.  

Now that you’re aware of a potential for disaster, what might you do to prevent any misfortune on the Fourth?

First, and most logical, STAY HOME WITH YOUR DOG.  Have the party at your house.  That way, you’re there to support and comfort your pet if necessary.  If your dog appears anxious, stay indoors with him or her.  Contact your veterinarian to see if medication would be appropriate for your dog.   Have some new dog toys on hand to divert your dog’s concentration.  Practice some obedience training using lots of praise for good behaviors to focus attention on you and away from the noises.  Don’t yell or scold your dog for barking, as this will only intensify any anxious feelings that are already present.  In other words, try to distract your dog.

If you’re not going to be home, LEAVE YOUR DOG INDOORS if possible.  A LOUD radio can go a long way toward masking the many outside noises that may occur.  A favorite toy or a special new toy will be a welcome, if temporary, distraction.  A long exercise session with your dog prior to leaving will help tire out your dog and encourage napping.  Hopefully, you won’t be in the same condition.  

Lastly, BE SURE YOUR DOG CAN BE IDENTIFIED in case of separation.  Many dogs are now being tattooed or have microchips implanted with information on them identifying their owners.  Obviously, wearing a collar and name tag with your phone number on it is another safety measure.  Dogs can wander great distances in a state of panic, so if your dog is missing, contact all shelters within your area.