Local Expert Said There’s Reason Dogs Fear Fireworks

As you get set for Fourth of July fireworks, do not forget your dogs.

According to the American Kennel Club, dogs have four times more sensitive hearing than humans. Local Dog Trainer Chynna Adams said a majority of dogs are afraid of fireworks.

“That can come from a lot of different factors,” Adams said. “So it could just be that they were not you know, exposed to loud sounds during their socialization period, and so they never really got exposed to that and made any kind of like positive association with that.”

Adams said there are medications for dogs who have anxiety but if that is not an option, taking your dog inside and playing music could be a solution.

“Having them secure in your house,” Adams said. “If you know the dog has anxiety already, a lot of dogs can become destructive and break out of windows, you know try to claw the doors and things like that, so having the dog secured in a safe crate is actually going a little bit of a step further than just having them in the house.”

Adams said the 4th of July is one of the days that has the highest rates for dogs becoming stray.

“Dogs get out of their property or get away from their owners because they are terrified and they are running around and then there is continuous exposure from the fireworks, so that puts them at a greater risk of being hit, or hit by a car, or stolen.”

Fireworks not only cause emotional stress but also physical harm as well. Adams said some dogs are brave and curious and often get too close or even eat the debris. Adams said the best way to protect your dog this 4th of July is to give them something to focus on.

“I’m sure the dogs will understand that T-R-E-A-T word,” Adams said.

Adams is Owner/Operator of the Pup Pub Academy.