RALEIGH, N.C. -- Independence Day is not a good day for dogs.
- Veterinarians and dog owners say it's because some dogs cannot handle the noise of fireworks
- Some dogs hide in the bathroom or chew through fences when fireworks go off because of their anxiety
- Dog owners can get veterinarian-prescribed anti-anxiety medicine for their dogs
Veterinarians and dog owners say it's because some dogs cannot handle the noise of fireworks.
"Owners of pets with thunderstorm anxiety often say the Fourth of July is their least favorite holiday because their pets get so anxious," says Dr. Herman Jeffer, a veterinarian at Cornwallis Road Animal Hospital.
Owners say their dogs have done things such as hiding in the bathroom or chewing through a fence when fireworks start going off because of their anxiety.
"If you come at them, even if you're the owner, they're not going to be overly happy with it," says dog owner Hannah Murphy. "At that time, you just let them be."
Dr. Jeffer says the most effective way to calm your pets during the fireworks is with a veterinarian-prescribed anti-anxiety medicine. If you don't have any medication, here are some other tips:
- Stay close to your dog at all times
- Keep your dog indoors and away from bright lights and loud noises, such as fireworks, sparklers, and barbecue grills
- If possible, get a safe space such as a crate or an empty room for your dog
- Keep their name tags on. Dr. Jeffer says animal shelters take in more pets than usual on Independence Day because so many run away when they're anxious.