For 3 weeks local firemen sell fireworks to kids and they pop them til 11:00 pm everynight. My pets are scared?
I'm tired of it and think the local firemen are setting a bad example. Wonder what firemen from other cities think of this? Wish they wouldn't be selling them so far in advance of July 4th. There. It's 10:00 pm here and it just started raining. Grin.
It is a really tough issue managing pets at the 4th of July time. Here in Oregon for days before and after people are setting them off in the streets. It is a little nerve wracking and of course the dogs hate it! I agree comforting the pet by being aware when they are reacting is the way to go. I usually encourage my dog to sit near me, tell her its okay in a voice implying she get over it, and while she might be on edge I don't constantly pet or talk to her. This will create more anxiety over time by training her to think that the sounds are really bad because why would I be overreacting if it wasn't? What I do is wait for her to really jump or perk up then give her a pat and a few calming words then ignore her again. She is learning they aren't a big deal although she's not that fond of them. Remember, you are the top dog and if you are freaking out, they will too!