Dogs Don't Dig Independence Day Fireworks

Dogs are particularly sensitive to loud noises and bolt in fear during fireworks. They may end up miles away, scared, exhausted, confused and disoriented, animal welfare experts warn. (Photo via Flickr)

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The family dog is so much a part of the family that as tempting as it may be to let the pooch tag along for Fourth of July festivities, it’s a monumentally bad idea.

For one thing, dogs especially have a heightened sense of hearing and the boom-boom-boom of fireworks is traumatic for them they’re likely to bolt.

“There’s a lot of concern about pets getting freaked out and sometimes getting so distressed that they’ll run out of the yard, and you won’t be able to find them,” Dr. Glynes Graham, a veterinarian from Patterson Dog and Cat Hospital in Detroit, told the Detroit Free Press. “Find them a nice quiet place to stay.”

Dogs are bothered more by the loud noises than cats, which are likely to go to the basement or some other isolated spot to hide, Graham told the Free Press.

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• Sunglasses or Umbrellas? Metro Detroit 4th of July Forecast
• What’s the Best Air Travel Day for Fourth of July?
• When’s the Best Day to Get Out of Town for 4th of July?

July 5 is traditionally the busiest day of the year for animal shelters nationwide, according to the American Humane Association, which said companion animals are often found miles away from their homes, disoriented and exhausted after fleeing loud fireworks in fear.

If your pet is upset by the sound of thunder or a slammed door, the Fourth of July fireworks will be “utterly terrifying,” AHA said. Here are some precautions:

• Your pets won’t enjoy the fireworks display, so leave them at home. Keep them inside, shielded from loud noises.
• If loud noises upset your pets, do not leave them alone while you’re out celebrating; make sure someone can stay with them.
• If you think your pets should be tranquilized, consult your veterinarian well in advance.
• Contact an animal behaviorist to work with your pets on their fears. With some positive reinforcement and behavior modification training, by next Independence Day, you all may be worry-free.
• Be sure that all ID tags are properly affixed to your pet’s collar and that they have your current contact information, including cell number(s).
• Update your microchip registrations and pet license information to ensure its current.

The All About Animals Rescue organization, which has facilities in Detroit, Auburn Hills and Warren, has previously warned of some behavioral signs that a pet is distressed:

• Leash chewing
• Jumping through screens and windows
• Digging under fences
• Jumping over walls
• Running into traffic