July Fourth is the perfect time to celebrate and spend time with family, friends, and of course … your pets. We’re getting into the Independence Day spirit at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa, and can’t wait to host overnight guests while their families are traveling.
We’d like to take this opportunity to remind families about the dangers of fireworks and holiday celebrations, and how to keep your dog safe and healthy. Take a minute to read our Top Tips for Dogs, Fireworks & the Fourth of July.
In addition, we wanted to provide you with your daily dose of cuteness in honor of Independence Day. We’ve collected some awesome links to holiday-themed photographs, articles and videos that highlight adorable dogs and owners. We’ve also included links to some great organizations that support dogs in service to veterans.
We wish you a wonderful and safe Fourth of July!
What’s In A Name?
If you’re looking for a patriotic name for your dog – or you just want to see what other pet owners have named their dogs – check out this list of possibilities. Spoiler alert: lots of dogs have been named after presidents.
All-American Dogs
While many of the dog breeds we know and enjoy today originated in other countries, there are a number of AKC registered breeds which were developed on American soil, and each has its own unique history and heritage. Find out more on the American Kennel Club website.
Decked Out Dogs
Who doesn’t love a good dog photo? Here is a gallery of 30 patriotic dogs getting into the spirit of the Fourth of July. Yes, they’ll make you smile.
Patriotic PAWS
Patriot PAWS is a nonprofit organization that trains and provides service dogs at no cost to disabled American veterans and others with mobile disabilities and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) to help restore their physical and emotional independence. The Texas Country Reporter filmed a 2015 segment on Patriot PAWS so you can get an “inside” look at how they train service dogs with the help of prison inmates. Watch four veterans go through their daily routine with the female inmate trainers in Gatesville as they prepare for graduation.
Patriotic Service Dog Foundation
Patriotic Service Dog Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on serving our military and first responder veterans by raising awareness for their needs and providing Service Dogs to those who may benefit from long-term mental and physical assistance. They match wounded veterans with highly trained and skilled Service Dogs that allow their new partners to become more independent, self-confident, and comfortable with life outside of the military/law enforcement. Read their success stories here.
Pets for Patriots
Pets for Patriots helps United States military veterans adopt a new pet friend while giving the most overlooked shelter dogs and cats hope and a home. To promote the human-animal bond and reduce the chance of adopted animals being surrendered to shelters, Pets for Patriots provides veterans with various benefits to make pet guardianship more affordable over the life of the pet, including ‘welcome home’ contributions for pet food and other essentials, access to high-quality, discounted veterinary care, and discounts on a range of pet-related goods and services. See videos and read success stories here.
Patriotic Puppies
This YouTube video is compilation of photos set to patriotic music and shows pups dressed up and showing off their red, white and blue.
Tips for helping your dog cope with the noise and stress of fireworks and Independence Day celebrations in Indiana.
Tiki, our Good Dog Hotel & Spa Ambassador, wishes you a fabulous Fourth of July, and reminds you to keep your pets safe and secure during the holiday.
One of the main events at most Fourth of July celebrations in Indiana is, of course, the fireworks – what would Independence Day be without them? And while we humans might love the “oohs” and “aahs” of fancy explosions and bright colors, your dog most likely won’t feel the same way. In fact, research shows that more pets run away on this holiday than any other time of the year.
The Fourth of July can be a stressful holiday for pets. Loud noises can cause fear in dogs, causing anxiety and a triggered nervous system. Unlike natural occurrences (like thunder), fireworks are more intense, lower to the ground, and come with flashing lights and unfamiliar smells. You can make the holiday safer and a little less frightening for your dog by following these tips:
- Be prepared. Make sure your dog is wearing proper identification, and keep your eye on him during the activities and commotion. Remember that your dog’s survival instinct is to be afraid of loud noises and run away.
- Supply plenty of water. Anxious dogs pant more and get thirsty, so make sure that water bowl is topped off.
- Seek safety. If possible, arrange to have your dog in a place where there won’t be loud fireworks going off. This could be at a friend’s or relative’s house, or even at a familiar dog-boarding It will help if your dog has spent time and is already comfortable at the home or doggie daycare.
- Consider alternatives. Unable to take your dog away to a fireworks-free location? Have a travel kennel or cage at home for her to feel safe in. Allow her to seek refuge under beds or chairs, if that’s preferable. Draw curtains, shut any open windows and doors, and leave the TV or radio on to help distract from outside noises. If you’re not going to be home, have a sitter, friend or relative come over to keep your dog company. Make sure she is taken out to relieve herself every four hours.
- Get your dog used to the sounds. If you’d like to help your dog become more tolerant of fireworks, consider planning ahead for next year and work in advance to make him more comfortable with the loud sounds. With plenty of patience and time (probably three to four months), you can play recorded sounds of fireworks or other loud noises for your dog at increased intervals and volumes. This can be done before a walk or meal time, and during playtime. As he learns to associate the noise with safety and comfort, it can help desensitize him from the sounds of fireworks. Note: If your dog is extremely sensitive to loud noises, seek the advice of an experienced dog behaviorist before you try any desensitizing techniques.
- Consult with your vet. If your dog has an extreme reaction to fireworks, talk with your veterinarian about possible solutions. They could include wearing ThunderShirts or other calming accessories, or even taking calming medications, if necessary. And remember, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do your best to remain calm. Your dog will sense any nervousness on your part, so relax and send the message that things are fine. The less you’re concerned about fireworks, the higher the chances your dog will pick up on your cues and be less concerned as well.
- Get plenty of exercise (before dusk). Prior to any fireworks displays, take your dog on a long walk or out for an invigorating play session. Expend any access energy before the festivities begin. This will help your dog get to a pleasantly tired – and hopefully more calm – state.
- Let your dog sit this one out. We know that dogs are a part of the family, and you might feel guilty by excluding them from a family event. But celebrations with fireworks are events that your dog won’t mind missing out on. If your dog is bothered by fireworks, he will be happy to stay safe at home or in another quiet place, away from stress and anxiety.
Do You Have More Tips to Share?
Have you found ways to make your dog feel safer and less stressed in the presence of fireworks? We’d love to hear your stories. Please leave any additional tips or suggestions in the space below.
