One of the most disturbing things that I see every year around this time, is LOST, MISSING, and $REWARD flyers posted all over for missing dogs. Fireworks can be heard days before and after the 4th of July. Some dogs don't seem to be bothered, but most get very anxious this time of year.
There are a few things you can do to ease the stress of loud sounds such as the sounds we hear on New Year's Day, the 4th of July, and thunder stormy days:
1. Create white noise. You can turn your computer into a white noise machine. Here are some web sites that offer free white noise to help drown out the louder sounds. http://simplynoise.com/ is a popular website if you want to hear static, while http://www.rainymood.com/ will play rain and thunder noises.
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3. Use your cell phone to see if you can download any white noise applications.
4. You can also turn on a radio or the television with classical music or programs that you usually watch or listen to. If you often listen to the news, put on the news channel. Anything that is familiar might calm your dog.
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5. Sometimes a combination of these may be used as well.
6. There are many calming products for dogs on the market now. I have heard good reviews for "Quiet Moments" calming aid. It can be purchased on line or at Pet Co. http://www.holisticpetinfo.com/Quiet-Moments-60-by-NaturVet.html
One last word of advice: Keep your dog(s) indoors if you go away and the dog is left alone. A dog left outdoors can find ways to escape and may run aimlessly in a panic. It often ends in tragedy that could have been prevented. The dog could get hit by a car or wander into unfamiliar territory. There are people who will keep a dog without searching for its owner. If you have someone to check up on your dog, that is great. But that person should be instructed to leash the dog before opening the door in case the dog makes a mad dash and runs out.
If you go out to enjoy the fireworks shows, it is usually best to leave your K9 pal at home. I have seen some people take their dogs along, and their dogs do not seem bothered. Some puppies don't know any better as they think it is a normal occurrence. But as they age, they tend to associate the unpleasant experiences from the years before and the anxiety builds over time. Trust your judgment and do what works for you.