You may love the sights and sounds of fireworks.
Your pet? Not so much.
For dogs, especially, the loud sounds, bright lights and strange smells may overwhelm their sensitive nature, creating a traumatic experience—especially when left alone.
Help prepare your pooch for the neighborhood excitement with tips from dog-training experts across the capital region.
“It is important that owners read their dog and understand how they react to vibrations and sounds before making plans to leave town,” said Chris Darhower, owner and lead trainer at Off Leash K9 Training. “During vacations—when owners are gone—is when dogs tend to run away as they don’t have a strong bond with their pet sitter.”
Owners should be prepared for the worst-case scenario—Fido runs away. Start by following these simple steps to help your pup stay safe this summer.
Identification
Is your dog microchipped? Make sure your canine’s tracking information is accurate with a current address, contact information and a description of their size and coloring.
“Please have your pets microchipped, if you haven’t done so already,” said Amanda Brunish, director of marketing and outreach for the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area. “More dogs run away during the Fourth of July weekend than any other time of the year.”
Take a current picture of your furry friend wearing their collar and readable tags. If you’re planning on updating their wardrobe, add their new collar to the photo, too. This will be essential for social media pet-tracking if something does go astray.
Acclimation to Fears
In the time leading up to a holiday, owners can acclimate their four-legged friend by slowly exposing them to loud noises.
Want to start with a professional? Keystone K-9 offers a “desensitizing workshop,” which includes three, hour-long training sessions during which dogs get familiarized with abrupt sounds, socialize with other pups and are leash-trained by professionals.
“We give personalized care to each and every dog as if they were our own pets,” said Ali Reed, professional dog trainer at Keystone K-9. “We work with them on their fears and prepare your family for the unexpected.”
Or start from home using free, noise-phobic training videos online. Visit the American Kennel Club’s YouTube channel for a plethora of resources for dogs of all ages and sizes.
Tire Out & Leash Up
On nights when you expect fireworks, go for a long walk or play fetch to exhaust your hound before sundown. Feed them earlier for digestion and top off their water bowl as anxious dogs tend to pant and drink more.
Off Leash K9 Training “double leashes” their clients before storms or fireworks by attaching the leash to the collar and a harness with an attachment. Darhower said that it’s important to check the fit of both pieces before going outside in dangerous settings.
“Do not rely on what feels comfortable to protect your dog,” Darhower said. “Some people believe that a fenced-in backyard or a leash will protect them from danger, but when an animal is scared, they can overcome many obstacles to survive.”
Create a Safe Space
It’s showtime. Make your canine comfortable by closing windows, turning on indoor lights and using a TV or white noise to drown out vibrations. Create safe hiding spaces around your home with their favorite treats, toys and blankets so they can take cover in an instant.
“Turning on music and making sure windows and doors are shut can help mask the sensations of fireworks,” Brunish said. “If you have pets who suffer from extreme anxiety, talk to their vet about taking anti-anxiety medication or consider purchasing a ‘thundershirt,’ which acts as a wearable weighted blanket for storms and fireworks.”
Stop, Drop and Think
If your pet runs off, Find Toby in PA recommends “stop, drop and think”.
“Running after your dog is the worst thing an owner can do,” Darhower said. “As a volunteer with Find Toby in PA, we know that when dogs are scared, they will tap into their animalistic instincts and might not recognize their owner. Stay calm and seek professional help as soon as possible.”
Immediately write down the nearest street and town where your pet was last seen. Notify your neighbors and contact local pet-finding agencies such as Find Toby in PA, the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area and PawBoost local Facebook pages.
Upcoming Fireworks
Stay informed and be prepared for when the next fireworks show will be. Know a neighbor who loves celebrations? Ask them when they are planning on setting off fireworks throughout the summer and warn them about your pet’s fears and sensitivities.
To be mindful of local dog owners, the Harrisburg Senators have announced their 2021 baseball schedule including fireworks after Friday night home games. Additionally, the city of Harrisburg will host their annual Fourth of July fireworks show from City Island at 9:15 p.m. and, to accommodate those staying home, the show will be available online.
Whether your family is celebrating Independence Day downtown in the city or safely at home, preparation is key for dog owners to keep their furry friends protected as the community commemorates the holiday with outdoor fun.
Interested in learning obedience tips from Off Leash K9 Training? Visit their Facebook Page during the holiday weekend for safety tips and training exercises before the fireworks start.
Find Toby in PA is a community-based group of trained volunteers who reunite lost pets with their owners. Learn more at www.findtobyinpa.org.
Learn more about Humane Society of Harrisburg Area at www.humanesocietyhbg.org.
Learn more about Keystone K9 at www.keystone-k9.com.
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