Be Fire friendly with your dog this 4th

Dogs and fireworks: an uneasy combo

For humans, Independence Day generally means fun... or at least a barbecue and time off from work. But thanks to fireworks, the Fourth of July can be the scariest night of the year for dogs. The sudden, deafening sounds (what's loud to us is ear-piercing to them) and bursts of light in the sky can elicit serious anxiety, if not downright terror.

So to avoid sending your pets trembling with fear, hiding in remote parts of the house, or even running away, check out these tips for keeping them feeling safe and secure:

• Keep your dog inside, and if possible, don't leave him alone in the house.
• Drown out the noise of the fireworks as much as possible. Close your windows and turn on the radio or television.
• Make sure he has access to his crate or "safe place" during the show, and casually toss him a treat once in a while.
• Act normal! Talk to your dog in an upbeat voice and go about your usual activities. Coddling or babying isn't advised: your dog takes his cues from you, so if he senses that you're confident and unafraid, he'll be more likely to respond in a similar manner.

Not surprisingly, many fireworks-phobic dogs also exhibit fearful behaviors during other times of the year as well. Lightning and thunderstorms, for example, can be particularly scary. If you think your pup is experiencing regular anxiety, get help. A reputable trainer or behaviorist can help you both work through these issues.