Watch the latest Alpha Paw episodes with host Bernie Zilio as she tackles your pet parent questions, along with our board of pet experts. You can watch the video and read the transcript below!

The Transcript

Bernie Zilio
With the 4th of July just around the corner, we’re sure to witness some amazing fireworks to celebrate the land of the free…but how can you keep your pupper *free* from anxiety? We got you! Here are some hacks for all of the firework anxious dogs out there.

Anxiety In Dogs During the 4th of July

Welcome back to Alpha Paw, your destination for everything dog. I’m Bernie Zilio and I’m on a mission to answer every doggone question you’ve ever had about your fur babies and today we’re talking about how you can help alleviate your pup’s anxiety around fireworks.

And fortunately, we have an expert with us here today, Dr. Ross. Dr. Ross is a seasoned veterinary professional and pet care expert. He earned his doctorate degree in veterinary medicine at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and his work has been featured in several industry-leading publications, including the Journal of Veterinary Surgery. He is our go-to vet for everything we want and needs to know about our fur babies, so welcome back to Alpha Paw Dr. Ross…

Bernie Zilio
Ok Dr. Ross, I know a lot of dogs are afraid of fireworks. In fact, A 2013 study by the University of Bristol’s School of Veterinary Sciences found fireworks were the most common trigger for fearful behavior in dogs. So what is it about the light show that freaks them out so much?

Dr. Ross
Most theories on this noise sensitivity in dogs suggested environmental factors as a cause. These could include a traumatic noise-related event early in a dog’s life, or a lack of exposure to loud noises as a puppy. The characteristics of dogs, their early environment, and exposure to specific loud noises are involved in the development of fear responses to noise. Some theories even suggest a genetic predisposition to sound sensitivity.

Ways to Calm Your Anxious Dogxton

The number one way is to stay indoors and get away from the noise. Turning on a radio or television helps provide white noise and distraction. You can also talk to your vet about possible medications (pheromones, melatonin, prescription meds). You can also give your dog Alpha Paw’s calming chews.

Bernie Zilio
Yes– the calming chews and calming diffuser work so well on my dog, Pod, not just for fireworks but any loud noises or when it rains…once a year here in LA.

This has been so helpful, Dr. Ross. If you want to get any of these firework-proof items, Alpha Paw is offering 20% off all of them, with promo code: July20, which I’ll put down in the description box.

Do you have more questions for Dr. Ross about firework safety for pups? Ask them in the comments section below. Again, I’m Bernie Zilio and this is Alpha Paw, be sure to subscribe so that you don’t miss a single doggone episode and we’ll see you next time!