Independence Day fireworks can panic Lowcountry dogs. Here’s how to keep them calm

Who doesn’t love Independence Day? The day is a celebration of freedom capped off with spectacular fireworks beloved by nearly the whole family.

Your dog probably isn’t a fan, though.

Fireworks frighten many dogs into running away. Roughly a fifth of all lost pets go missing after being scared by the sound of fireworks each year according to the ASPCA.

Even if left indoors, fireworks can be traumatizing to man’s best friend. The explosions and bright lights can easily become a cause of panic. Thankfully, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has a list of tips for helping your furry friends get through our nation’s birthday.

▪  Don’t take your dogs to fireworks displays. This may seem like common sense but it bears repeating. PETA reccomends that you leave dogs indoors with blinds or curtains drawn. If you or a friend or family member can stay with them to comfort them? Even better. Classical music and other calming background noise will also help.

▪  Make certain that your dogs have collars and tags. If they do get out that will make it easier to find them and get them back. Make sure the tag is current. PETA also reccomends having a microchip implanted in them.

▪  Play games with your dog. Time spent playing tug of war or fetch is time your dog isn’t devoting to freaking out over fireworks, according to PETA.

▪  Give them lots of treats. PETA says that in addition to being a good reward, they positively effect brain chemistry. When it comes to calming your pets, there’s nothing wrong with a good bribe.

▪  Melatonin is an effective way to calm dogs down, same as it is for humans, according to PETA. The proper dose for a 50 pound dog is 3 mg according to the organization, and that dosage can be adjusted up or down by bodyweight. This is a good method of managing an animal if you’ll be out of the house and don’t want to find it destroyed when you return.

This story was originally published July 1, 2017 at 6:32 PM with the headline "Independence Day fireworks can panic Lowcountry dogs. Here’s how to keep them calm."