How to Keep Your Dog Safe on the Fourth of July

While the Fourth of July is a cause for celebration, it can be one of the most stressful — and dangerous — days of the year for dogs. The American Veterinary Medical Association warns that fireworks, picnics, cookouts, and other holiday traditions can be frightening and even harmful to pets. Up to half of dogs react fearfully to fireworks.

In This Article

• • Before the Festivities
  • Should You Bring Your Dog?
  • Staying Safe at Parties
  • Cleanup After Fireworks
  • FAQs About Fourth of July Dog Safety

The Fourth of July is among the most active times of year for pets getting lost. The sound of fireworks commonly causes dogs to panic and run away. “Most dogs don’t like these types of things,” says Russ Hartstein, a certified behaviorist and dog trainer in Los Angeles. “Some tolerate it, but Fourth of July can be a traumatic experience for them.” Here are steps you can take before, during, and after the holiday to keep your dog safe.

Preparing Your Dog for the Holiday

Activities like parades, fireworks, and backyard parties can be overwhelming for dogs. Planning ahead can help reduce stress for both you and your dog.

Desensitize Your Dog to Loud Sounds

Use positive reinforcement to show that these loud noises are too scary. Play recordings of fireworks and thunder while you and your dog relax together. As the sounds play, toss your dog a treat.

Once the displays get started, keep them in a room where they’re safe and relaxed. Block outside sights and sounds as much as possible by lowering the blinds and turning on the television or radio.

Recognize Signs of Stress

Dogs that are fearful may whine, pant or drool, pace, tremble, cling to you, or look for a place to hide. Learn to recognize these signals so you know when your dog needs comfort.

Update ID Tags and Microchip

More dogs go missing during the Fourth of July holiday than at any other time of year. If your dog makes a run for it, make sure their identification is current:

• Keep any collar ID tag contact information up to date
• Make sure your dog has a permanent ID with a microchip in case their collar falls off
• Alert your lost-pet recovery service to any changes in your contact information
• Keep a recent photo of your dog on hand

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Talk to Your Veterinarian

Prescribing medication requires an established relationship with your vet, and your dog may need a physical exam if they haven’t been seen recently. If your dog’s anxiety is severe, contact your veterinarian at least 3-4 weeks before the holiday to discuss whether a situational anxiety medication might help.

Starting early also lets you get ahead of the holiday pharmacy rush and leaves time for a trial dose at home, so you can see how your dog responds to the medication. For the best results, medication works alongside training and behavioral support, not instead of them. You can also reach out to an animal behaviorist for additional support.

Should I Bring My Dog to the Celebration?

Part of being a responsible dog owner is knowing what’s best for your dog. After weighing the hazards above, ask yourself honestly: would your dog be more comfortable at home? If your dog cannot be in a safe, enclosed area — or if the noise, crowds, and heat are likely to overwhelm them — it may be the kindest choice to leave them behind.

Keeping Your Dog Safe During Celebrations

Once the festivities begin, keep your dog’s safety at the forefront of your mind. Whenever possible, keep your dog away from stressors like loud noises or sudden flashes of fireworks to help them stay calm and secure.

Creating a Safe Indoor Space

Whenever possible, keep your dog indoors during fireworks. Set up an area away from doors and windows — such as a basement or large closet — where noise is muted. Some dogs feel safest in a crate with their blankets, toys, and treats. If you go outside, use a pet camera to watch for signs of stress and reassure them remotely.

Secure Your Doors and Windows

A dog that is truly terrified may bolt through a screen to find a safe place to hide. By making sure everything is shut, you’ll reduce the likelihood of them getting out.

Use a Leash Outside

When you need to take your dog outside, go with them and hold the leash even in your own backyard — fireworks can go off unexpectedly, and a scared dog can bolt in an instant.

In any new environment, keep your dog on a leash so you can control introductions and step in quickly if they become uneasy. Even the friendliest, most socialized dogs can be frightened by the sights and sounds of the holiday.

Avoid Fireworks and Grilling Hazards

Fireworks, sparklers, and glow sticks aren’t just potentially frightening to your dogs. They also pose physical risks. Be sure to keep the following away from your dog:

• Fireworks and debris, which are composed of materials such as gunpowder, sulfur, and heavy metals — all of which are dangerous if ingested. Ashes or debris can also land on your dog’s fur or eyes
• Sparklers and glow sticks, which contain hazardous chemicals and can cause burns on impact
• Grilling equipment, such as barbecue grills, charcoal, matches, and lighter fluid
• Before you head out for the holiday, look up the locations of nearby fireworks displays so you can plan accordingly

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Skip Table Scraps

In an uncontrolled environment like a summer cookout, your dog might grab something off a plate or gobble up scraps on the floor. “You almost have to assume your dog is going to eat something he shouldn’t,” says Dr. Carly Fox, a senior veterinarian in emergency and urgent care at The Schwarzman Animal Medical Center of New York City.

Keep all food out of reach and dispose of scraps in covered or dog-proof trash cans. Any sudden change to your pet’s diet can cause stomach upset, and certain foods are outright toxic to dogs.

Foods to watch out for include:

• Corn on the cob: Can break into pieces and cause intestinal blockage. Dogs can eat corn off the cob in small amounts, but the cob itself is dangerous
• Kebab skewers: The smell of meat is enticing, but if your dog ingests the skewer, it can cause GI damage or internal puncture
• Cooked bones: Can cause GI upset, become lodged in the intestines, or pose a choking hazard
• Disposable dishes and cutlery: Styrofoam, paper plates, plastic cups, and utensils retain food odors and can cause stomach upset or obstruction if ingested
• Toxic foods: Onions, avocado, grapes, and raisins can be toxic for dogs

Prevent Overheating

July heat adds another layer of risk. If your pet is outside, make sure clean water and shady areas are available, and stay alert for signs of overheating. Never leave your dog in a parked car on a warm day.

Keep Household Products Away

If your dog exhibits signs of severe stress, stay calm and use a soothing tone of voice as you pet them slowly and gently.

Will There Be a Pool?

Contrary to popular belief, not every dog can swim. If you’re at a party with a pool, keep your dog on a leash or ensure someone is watching them at all times. Don’t assume they know how to handle themselves in the water, especially if they’ve never been in it before.

Will There Be Alcohol?

Although you’re not going to hand your dog a cocktail, they might drink from an unattended cup or lap up a spill. Dr. Fox says dogs are often attracted to alcoholic beverages when mixed with something sweet, such as pineapple or cranberry juice.

If your dog exhibits signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or lack of balance, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately.

Comfort Your Dog

If your dog shows signs of severe stress, stay calm. Use a soothing tone of voice and pet them slowly and gently. “Dogs are most comfortable in their own environment,” explains Hartstein.

If your dog is struggling, it may be a sign that it’s time to head home.

After the Holiday

Before letting your dog outside to play in your backyard, look for and remove all fireworks debris, which can be dangerous if ingested. Also, remove full trash cans, trash bags, beer cans, drink cups, and food scraps that your pet could get into.

Frequently Asked Questions