Fourth of July Dog Safety

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?

Our Miniature Schnauzers are part of our families so it's only natural for us to automatically include them during family gatherings and celebrations, BUT......

Sometimes the very best thing we can do for our pets is leave them at home.

If you will be attending an outdoor celebration that allows pets this Fourth of July, please consider all the possible threats and dangers it poses to your dog before deciding to take your Schnauzer with you.

Many dogs totally stress out over loud noises. And during the Fourth of July you not only have the sounds from the firework displays but the cheers from onlookers and the excited screams children. All of these things have an impact on your Schnauzer and can contribute to worsening his fears and anxiety.

And because it's a dog's natural instinct to flee from frightening situations or from what they feel may put them at risk, is exactly why so many dogs go missing during this holiday Can you imagine not knowing that the explosive sounds are from fireworks? Or why people are screaming and children running amok? Wouldn't you be frightened?

Since each dog is different you need to know how your Miniature Schnauzer reacts to new situations, sounds, crowds of people, children at play, around other animals and so on before deciding to allow your dog to tag along. The pet tips below are precautions you should take to help ensure a safe and happy Fourth of July this year.

Fourth of July Pet Safety Tips

Collar and ID tags: As we mentioned above, hundreds of dogs go missing during the July 4th holiday. Be prepared for the worse. Make sure your dog's collar and ID tags are up-to-date with correct contact information just in case your Schnauzer was to get loose and separated from you.

Keep your dog at home: Sometimes the best thing to do to ensure your dog's safety is leave your Schnauzer at home. While you may enjoy firework displays, most dogs don't. In fact, fireworks can cause some dogs tremendous fear, leaving them with long-term phobias.

Exercise Your Dog: Before leaving for the festivities, spend plenty of one-on-one time with your Miniature Schnauzer. Take him on a brisk walk or jog, or play a good game of catch, whatever activity your Schnauzer really likes and one that will wear him out a bit. A tired dog will be less anxious and more likely to sleep while you're away.

Calming Aids to the Rescue:  Some dogs reap the benefits of calming aids in the form of soft chews which help to manage stress, tension and anxiety in dogs. Or use a diffuser which dispenses an odorless vapor that mimics a dog’s natural calming pheromones. These pheromones 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 escape the noise and go try to find you.

Leave the TV or Radio playing: While you are away from home, leave on the familiar sounds of the television 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. Ask your vet about them.

A few more pet 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? Be sure to take along your pet's first aid kit.

Sunburns and Heat Strokes: By spending too much time outdoors during a long summer day, your dog is more susceptible to sunburns or heat strokes. Take the necessary precaution to ensure your dog has plenty of shade and water to keep cool and hydrated.

Water Sports: There have been reports of dogs drowning during water sport activities during outdoor celebrations. So plan on supervising and monitoring your Miniature Schnauzer closely especially when he is in and around pools, lakes and rivers.

Fireworks can be deadly: Fireworks can cause severe burns on the face of an inquisitive Miniature Schnauzer. And even unlit fireworks pose a dangerous threat since they contain a mixture of chemicals which could be lethal to a dog if ingested. So supervise, supervise, supervise and keep all fireworks 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 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

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