to help keep your dog safe during 4th of July festivities
1. LEAVE AT HOME!
Do NOT take your pet to fireworks displays. Regretful people will tell you that they thought their dog would be fine ... and now their precious dog is no longer with them. Don't be sorry, be safe!
2. KEEP INSIDE EXCEPT TO POTTY:
Keep your dog inside the house.... in an interior room or basement with windows closed & TV, radio or soft music on to muffle outside sounds. Help them to feel safe however you can by playing with him/her, doing some relaxed massage, or distracting with a favorite toy.
3. DO NOT REINFORCE FEARS:
Do NOT say "Oh (name), it's okay ...." as this may reinforce it's anxiety. Be calm yourself, be nonchalant ...... model relaxation and your dog will pick up on it.
4. SNUG COLLAR, IDENTIFICATION, MICROCHIP:
Be very sure that your dog has full identification collar or harness on AND that it is snug enough that s/he cannot slip it over it's head. Frightened dogs are not rational when they are seriously scared ... and would likely not come when called. Microchipping is also an excellent way to try to prevent your dog not being returned to you if lost.
5. TREATING ANXIETY:
If you know your dog is hyper-anxious, try using something like Rescue Remedy to take the edge off. If your dog is seriously anxious, you might wish to discuss a light sedative for your dog during fireworks festivities.
6. LOST SITUATION: Should your dog accidentally bolt from you and become lost, Quickly follow the "Lost Dog" steps provided on the Bichon Frise Information Station.
Good Luck, have fun, but leave Fido at home!
