July Fourth prep for dog lovers — Tips to avoid dogs’ firework frenzy

[To comment: larry@larrylitwin.com]

This advice comes from Associated Press writer Sue Manning. You can find the entore story in the Courier-Posthttp://www.courierpostonline.com/viewart/20130704/NEWS05/307040030/Fourth-July-fireworks-rattle-dogs

Here are the tips:

Experts say you can prevent a personal doggie drama from becoming a tragedy by taking some simple steps:
• Take a walk and wear your dog out before sundown.
• Plan on staying home with your pet when fireworks shows are scheduled nearby.
• Close the doors and windows, turn on the television, music, fans and any other noisy devices to try and drown out the noise and percussion of the explosions.
• Just sit with the dog. Don’t force cuddling because fear can turn some animals aggressive. Have treats available but most dogs won’t eat through fireworks.
• Leaving a dog in a crate or cage may not protect it. Dogs can chip their teeth and break their nails on cages.
• If a pet doesn’t have a microchip or an ID tag with updated information, get that before the fireworks start.

[To comment: larry@larrylitwin.com]