Everyone likes to enjoy the Fourth of July, a true American holiday of freedom, cookouts, getaways and fireworks. This year, I’m asking that you consider the dog next door.

In practically every community, fireworks displays explode over parks, beaches and town squares. The general public understands that the potential for disaster looms when errant explosives land in places not intended. However, things can go really wrong when nearby neighbors set off cherry bombs and other shooting, exploding, snap, crackle and popping displays which overexcite your dog.

Believe it or not, dogs have been known to die from heart attacks this time of year. They jump out of windows, crash through gates, become distraught, run into the street and are hit by cars. All because of the frightening noise of fireworks.

With loud sounds, dogs often shake or quake uncontrollably. It can help to hold them tightly, to find a dark, quiet place, maybe their crate or under a table away from windows where they might feel safe.

But generally, it’s a horribly long evening of suffering.

This Fourth of July, consider the dog next door… or the dog a block away. For canines, sounds are amplified, therefore, if it’s loud for humans, you can only imagine how frightening it may be for them.

If you feel you must set off firecrackers or other fireworks, please go far from civilization. Don’t do it in neighborhoods and don’t do it anywhere near where any dogs reside. Sound carries farther than you may think.

Please consider the dogs nearby on July 4th and let’s keep them safe and sane. Take this post viral and send it to a local or national news service near you. Your furry friends will thank you.

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