Boom. Ahhhh. Bang. OH NO, Fido!

Did you know more dogs are lost on the 4th of July than any other day of the year?

Independence Day can be a stressful time for dogs and worried owners alike. Fear and anxiety are the number one issues dogs have, and with their incredible hearing, it is no wonder our furry friends are frightened by the festivities.

The pet lovers at Be Green Pro have put together a few tips that will allow both you and your canine companions to enjoy the holiday together.

• Exercise Before the Big Event: Walking helps your dog to de-stress and be more relaxed later in the evening.
• Stay Calm: When loud noises worry your dog, they will look to you for comfort. Yelling, panicking, or coddling your best buddy can stress your dog further. Reassure your pet in a calm, soothing voice.
• Provide Distractions: Play calming music or white noise as well as offering toys and treats can help shift your dog’s attention away from stressful sounds outside.
• Create a Relaxing Space: A soundproof area or designated “quiet” room where your dog can retreat will help them calm down. Pheromone diffusers or sprays can release soothing scents. If your dog is particularly nervous about loud noises, you can try anti-anxiety vests, jackets, and towel wrapping.
• Professional Help: If your dog displays signs of excessive/intense fear look for treatment options like behavior therapy right away. Irrational behaviors tend to get worse over time, so it is better to address them sooner rather than later.

Mikaela Trexell is an aspiring entomologist who plans to study at UW-Madison this fall. When not sifting through the Dollar Store for hidden treasures or enjoying the Waukesha Farmer's Market, she works as an intern at Be Green Pro.

Bibliography

Moore, A. (2019, June/July). What's That Scary Sound. Dogster, 41-43.