Doggone Etiquette —

Fireworks!

By Bardi McLennan

A Word to the Dog:

After all the rain and thunderstorms we’ve had, you just might possibly be immune to the “thunder and lightning” of fireworks. Your people may think those noisy things with bursts of colored lights in the sky are fun, but most dogs do not. Dogs are more apt to think of it (perhaps more patriotically) as “rockets’ red glare and bombs bursting in air” which is not exactly a dog’s idea of having a good time. We’d better have a chat with your VIPeople and their friends and explain how they can make the 4th of July easier for all you dogs.

 

A Word to the Dog Owners:

It is perfectly normal for any animal to be startled, frightened and to seek shelter when a loud noise occurs. A succession of loud bangs, flashes of lights overhead, and people shouting their delight at the theatrical production, does not ease the situation. Your sweet, friendly, easy-going Rufus or Tootsie is albeit a very smart dog, but still an animal with basic animal instincts. Even dogs that are deaf react to the tremors of loud bangs. So how can you get your dogs through those sound effects that routinely come with the 4th of July? Fortunately for you and your dog, there are ways to ease his panic.

Do not take Rufus with you if you are going somewhere to watch public (or private) fireworks. Frightened dogs run away and don’t come back when called. They become lost dogs. Fireworks displays take place in the evening, so exercise your Rufus and then leave him home with fresh water and maybe a special dog biscuit or toy. If there’s any chance of fireworks in your neighborhood while you’re gone, also leave the radio or TV on (in another room if it might be attacked by a distraught canine!) with the volume relatively low.          

But, maybe the fireworks will be close to your home and that’s where you’ll be. No matter, you must still leave that dear dog safely indoors, and maybe turn up the sound on the radio or TV. Another caution if you’ll be staying home yourself with Rufus and that is to avoid the most common mistake made by devoted dog owners. If he shows signs of stress, do NOT tell him “it’s okay … it’s all right” and all those other supposedly comforting phrases that come to mind. To Rufus, it is NOT all right – it is far scarier than one or two rumbles of thunder. To a dog (remember “animal”) this is obviously an attack by aliens! Be completely normal in your voice and manner, and plan ahead so you have his very favorite treats on hand.

Use any interactive play distractions that your dog can’t resist. Let him hide under a bed if he seems to think that’s safer, and just go about your business in a normal way. When he feels secure, he’ll join you.        

There is another 4th convention and that’s the barbeque or picnic. Here’s where Rufus can join the party! Be sure the kids know that dogs cannot be given any bones from the barbeque. No doubt there will be plenty of other things dogs can feast on – like cheese, crackers, cookies, ice cream, well, you get the idea. A rambunctious Rufus must be kept clear of the grill for his safety (and your feast’s) and away from anywhere small kids are eating so their feast is not stolen!            

Have a great 4th of July and be sure your dog enjoys it, too.

                            

Until next time – BE GOOD!

-  Bardi

Bardi McLennan bred, trained and showed Welsh Terriers for 30 years during which time she wrote a monthly column on canine behavior in Dog fancy Magazine. In addition to contributing to numerous dog publications, she has written 15 books on dogs, the latest being Rescue Me! which received the ASPCA Humane Issues Award last year.