Preventing your dog's fireworks jitters

With the Fourth of July only a few days away, many dog parents and their companions will be attending barbecues and outdoor gatherings with their friends and family. No Independence Day gathering would be complete without fireworks, and no matter what your state's laws may say, someone will figure out a way to bring them along. As a dog parent, you don't know how your pooch is going to react to these loud booms and strange odors, so whether you're at a friend's house or at your own, you may want to take the following precautions from ABCNews.com.

1. Find a quiet place. While it's true that you may not want to miss your loved one's fireworks display, you have a larger obligation to your canine. Start by locating a quiet place in your home, such as the basement or a bathroom bathtub, where you can play music, the radio or simply relax with your dog. Being in a safe place will prevent your companion from becoming overly excited, which could prevent him or her from running out of an unlatched gate or through a screen.

2. Keep a relaxed vibe. Dogs have an amazing ability to emulate the mood and temperament of their caretakers, so if your pooch seems distressed, it's best to project a cool and composed vibe that your dog can pick up on. The news source suggests acting more like a paramedic than a parent during these situations by using a calm and soothing tone and staying with your dog throughout the fireworks display.

3. Bring a toy. Channeling your dog's energy into something productive can help him ignore the loud sounds outdoors, so bring along a treat-filled toy or one that you can fill with peanut butter, suggests the Escanaba Daily Press. This is a surefire way to help ease your dog's stress and lessen the anxiety of the situation.

While fireworks are a rare occasion you'll have to prepare for, it couldn't hurt to ask an animal health professional about your canine's sensitivity to loud noises or for additional tips to help out during Fourth of July festivities. If you're in the New York City area, consider making an appointment at a Bideawee Animal Hospital for a full health inspection on your furry friend.