Fourth of July Dog Safety Tips
Did you know there is a huge increase in the number of dogs that go missing on the Fourth of July? Do you know why?
We all love having our Miniature Schnauzers with us during family gatherings and celebrations BUT...... Sometimes the very best thing we can do for our Miniature Schnauzers is leave them at home. It's true. Many dogs get totally stressed out over noises. Whether it's the sound of thunder or the sound of Fourth of July fireworks, their fear and anxiety increases. So, knowing your Miniature Schnauzer and how your dog is effected by external stimuli will help you take the necessary precautions in order to keep your Miniature Schnauzer safe during all the celebrations.
photo courtesy of Jesse Michael Nix
Fourth of July Dog Safety Tips- Collar and ID tags - As stated above, hundreds of dogs go missing during July 4. Prepare for the worse, if your Miniature Schnauzer was to get loose and separated from you. Be sure your dog is wearing his collar and ID tags, with up-to-date contact information.
- Keep your dog at home - Sometimes it's best to keep your Miniature Schnauzer at home. You may enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks but most dogs don't. In fact, fireworks can cause some dogs tremendous fear, leaving them with long-term phobias.
- Exercise Your Dog - Before you leave for the fireworks show, spend plenty of one-on-one time with your Miniature Schnauzer. Take him on a brisk walk or jog, or a good game of catch, whatever activity your Schnauzer really likes that will wear him out a bit. A tired dog will be less anxious and probably sleep through most of the time you are away.
- Calming Aids to the Rescue - You can also help your Miniature Schnauzer remain calm and relaxed at home by using calming aids like Comfort Zone W/D.A.P. Diffuser. It simulates natural calming pheromones that help soothe dogs especially in stressful situations and can reduce or completely stop stress-related behavior including: barking, whimpering and whining, chewing, urination and defecation. It actually reduces or eliminates separation anxiety and calms dogs during thunderstorms and Fourth of July fireworks or when left home alone.
- Keep your dog indoors - DO NOT leave your Miniature Schnauzer outside or even have a way he can exit your home on his own (like a doggy door). If your Miniature Schnauzer is stressed, he may run away in an attempt to find you and escape the noise.
- Leave the TV or Radio playing - While you are away from home, leave on the familiar sounds of a TV or radio to help keep your Miniature Schnauzer calm. Plus, these familiar sounds will help mask out the more frightening sounds from the outside.
- Consult your Vet - Some dogs are so stressed out over loud noises that they may need the help of some medication. There are also calming herbs that may help your Miniature Schnauzer. PetAlive PetCalm for Anxiety and Stress in Pets. Ask your vet about them.
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A few more safety reminders:If you do decide to take your Miniature Schnauzer to an afternoon barbecue, please remember that there are lots of dangers there too! - Harmful foods and plants: You must be aware of the poisonous plants and harmful foods for dogs that may be within your Miniature Schnauzer's reach.
- Insect bites and ticks: Be sure to be current with your Miniature Schnauzer's flea and tick treatment. How to remove a dog tick and flea & tick products.
- Physical harm: Your Miniature Schnauzer could also easily cut himself on a tin can, or he choke if he got a hold of a cooked bone that could splinter. Will you be prepared?
dog safety tip: Be sure you have your Miniature Schnauzer's dog first aid kit with you. Prepare or purchase a travel first aid kit for dogs. - Sunburns and heatstrokes: Miniature Schnauzers can also suffer doggy sunburns and heat strokes, by spending too much time outdoors during a long summer day. And still, there are those dogs that have even drowned during water sport activities. So plan on supervising and monitoring your Miniature Schnauzer's activities closely.
By the way, most Miniature Schnauzers don't do well in the heat and aren't great swimmers. - Fireworks can be deadly: Fireworks can cause a severe burn of the face of an inquisitive Miniature Schnauzer. Even unlit fireworks, containing a variety of chemical agents including potassium nitrate, can be dangerous and considered lethal to your Schnauzer if ingested. So supervise, supervise, supervise and keep all fireworks (be them lit or unlit) away from your Miniature Schnauzer.
With all this in mind, you can see why it's sometimes best to leave your Miniature Schnauzer at home. This way you can go enjoy the celebrations of the day with family and friends and have peace of mind knowing your Miniature Schnauzer is safe and sound at home, enjoying the peace and quiet. But whatever you decide, just make sure to take the necessary precautions and...........
Have a Safe & Happy Fourth of July
SEASONAL SAFETY INFO FOR DOGS 
Go from Fourth of July Pet Tips to About the Miniature Schnauzer on Schnauzers Rule Go from Fourth of July Pet Tips to Dog Safety Holiday Tips Related Topics:
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