One of my dogs has a little bit of a problem with loud noises such as fireworks and thunderstorms. He doesn't get too terribly upset (likes to hide, refuses to go outside for awhile even after it's quieted down), but I happened to read an article about how using peppermint oil on the dog's paw pads helps to really calm them, so I'm going to give it a try this year.
It has to be real peppermint oil (not the kind found in the grocery store in the baking section), so I went to a local health food store and bought a bottle. You put the oil on a cotton pad, then put some on each of the dog's paws. I did a Google search and found a lot of comments from people saying it worked for their dog. (Just type in 'thunderstorms peppermint oil.')
Below is another article I found while searching around. I know a lot of pets end up freaking out and getting lost this time of year, poor things, so be sure you have an up-to-date ID tag on your pets, even if they will be inside the house.
Dogs & Fireworks Don't Mix!
![Fireworks1](http://www.billfoundation.org/news/Fireworks1.jpg" "Fireworks1") Every year on the Fourth of July America's skies are bright with fireworks, sparklers and Roman candles as we celebrate Independence Day. Bangs, explosions and bright lights are accompanied by screams, sirens and howling dogs throughout the country.
Dogs do not like fireworks. Fact. Every year dogs along with many other animals experience fear and confusion, sometimes alone when their owners are away enjoying an organized event. It is not unusual for dogs to run away from home after being frightened by fireworks. Another problem for dogs is the fact that fireworks seem to be going off for a few days leading up to July 4th as well so there is no way of knowing exactly when your dog might be subjected to a loud bang.
Below are some suggestions to help ensure that your pets can get through the fireworks unscathed.
- It is a good idea to bring any outdoor pets inside during the fireworks. Always remember how acute a dog's sense of hearing is. A loud bang to us can feel like a volcano erupting to a dog.
- It may be hard, but try and stay with your dog during the fireworks. Your presence will help to calm your dog and while the noise may still frighten them, they will feel better and recover much faster with you there.
- Always make sure your dog has his or her own special area where they can go to feel safe. Be it an indoor kennel or a place under the stairs, dogs love to have a den at their disposal.
- It sounds obvious, but try to keep the windows and curtains closed during the fireworks display as this will lessen the effect of the noise and bright flashes.
- Also, normal household noises such as the TV or music can help to distract from the loud noises coming from outside.
- Last but certainly not least, always ensure your pet has some sort of identification on him or her. It is a sad fact but many dogs do run away from home because of fireworks. Even dogs that have previously shown no fear of fireworks can occasionally take flight at the loud noises and flashes in the sky.
Be prepared, your dog has never heard of Independence Day or The Fourth of July and he doesn't understand what is going on. He needs your help to make it through the day.
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![Fireworks2](http://www.billfoundation.org/news/Fireworks2.jpg" "Fireworks2")
