Barking at the Bangs: Fireworks, Fears, and Four-Legged Friends

Published on 1 July 2025 at 08:20

Happy 4th of July!  This is a time for enjoying the beach, swimming pools, barbecues, and of course, fireworks.  While our four-legged friends often enjoy the beach, swimming pools, and barbecues (FOOD!) too, they really don't enjoy the fireworks.  If you're close to an area where fireworks are set off, please be sure to take precautions to keep your dog safe.  Many dogs respond well to calming sprays or a Thundershirt which can work on the dog's pressure points to help him/her calm down.  If you know that things do not work for your dog, make sure that your dog is securely inside before the fireworks start.  If you're just not sure about keeping your dog secure, you may want to consider boarding your dog at an indoor boarding facility for the night.  The most important thing is to  keep our fuzzy pals safe.

Tip of the Month

Did you know that dogs who live inside will shed year round?  Technically dogs' bodies are set to blow their coat (or shed) two times a year.  They usually do this when the weather changes in the Spring and Fall.  However, dogs that live inside the house (like my dogs) will shed year round.  This is because the dog does not experience weather changes in the same way as a dog who lives outside.  Getting the dog a good de-shed from a professional groomer will help, but remember that some hair may continue to shed for a few days.  That's just part of having indoor dogs.  I for one think some dog hair on my floor is totally worth it.

Breed Spotlight

The Labrador Retriever is consistently one of the most popular dog breeds.  This breed is typically very friendly, smart, and social.  Labradors usually get along with everyone, two-footed or four-footed.  They aim to please their humans so they are usually pretty easy to train.  Labradors often do well in jobs including search and rescue, detection, and service work.  The Labrador is an energetic dog so he/she needs physical exercise as well as mental stimulation.  My Labrador Hoodie, loved dock diving, chasing his basketball, and playing 'keep the tennis ball away' from his sister Jules.

Quote of the Month

"Apparently my favorite color is dog hair.  I wear it with everything."  Anonymous

This quote accurately describes my life!