Paws R Made 4 Walkin OC

Dogs Dont Like Fireworks! But Can Tolerate Them.
Every year 4th of July is the single largest day for pets escaping and ending up in shelters. Distressed dogs, panicked by the fireworks, escape through doors, windows and fences. While the shelters make every effort to contact the owners, some will not be located in time and their pet EUTHANASIZED!
Here are simple steps to take to help avoid this happening to you and your furry friends!
• Give your pups a long, fast paced walk to wear them out before the festivities begin!
• Keep animals securely inside when fireworks start. Do not allow panicked dogs to wait near a door. They will elope the first opportunity that the door opens! Windows should be closed and drapes/blinds drawn.
•Crank up the TV volume to drown out Fireworks sounds! If your dog likes watching Animal Planet or listening to classic rock, hook them up!
• Does Fido have 2 forms of ID? Make sure dog has a collar with a name tag firmly attached. Occasionally, they are able to escape a collar, so a microchip is a great backup they can't ditch!
* Ensure all contact info is correct (most vets can verify microchip info).
• Have someone sit inside with the dog(s) while fireworks are going off.
The goal is to get the dog to ignore the fireworks and act normally... What should you do? This might seem strange to some of you , but you should ignore the fireworks and act normal!
This does NOT mean to hold and comfort them through their nervousness. That is only going to reinforce the nervous behavior! You can play games, tug, do training or tricks, things to keep their mind busy! Do anything you would do on any other Wednesday night.
If you want a dog to do anything, it is as simple as creating a positive association to it. If done right, fireworks could be only a few treats away from never bothering your dog again.
We wish YOU and YOUR PACK a Happy 4th of July!!!