Keeping Your Pup Safe, Calm, and Happy This Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is one of the most celebrated holidays of the year, but for many of our four-legged family members, it’s also one of the most stressful. Fireworks, crowds, BBQs, and the general chaos of the holiday weekend can be overwhelming for even the most laid-back dogs. Whether your pup is staying home with you or boarding with us at The Bone Adventure this holiday, here’s everything you need to know to keep them safe, calm, and comfortable.

If Your Dog Is Staying Home

During Fireworks: Fireworks are the biggest culprit of holiday anxiety for dogs. Keep your pup indoors with the windows and doors closed. create a safe, quiet space where they can retreat, such as a crate they love, a cozy corner with their favorite blanket, or a familiar room. White noise machines, fans, or calming music can help muffle the sound. Never leave an anxious dog outside unattended during fireworks, and make sure your pup’s ID tags/microchip information are up to date just in case they get out.

At BBQs and Gatherings: Holiday gatherings bring their own set of hazards. Keep a close eye on what your pup has access to. Foods like onions, garlic, grapes, corn cobs, and anything with xylitol are toxic to dogs. Alcoholic beverages, lighter fluid, and glow sticks are also very dangerous. With lots of guests coming and going, doors and gates can accidentally be left open, so assign someone to be the designated “dog watcher” for the day!

If Your Dog Is Boarding With Us

At The Bone Adventure, we go above and beyond to make sure every pup in our care feels as safe and relaxed as possible during the holiday weekend. Here’s a look into what we do and measures we take:

Calming Music (Inside and Outside): Music is one of our most powerful tools. We play calming music throughout our indoor and outdoor spaces. Reggae music can also be heard around this time: a study by the University of Glasgow and the Scottish SPCA found that dogs showed significantly lower stress behaviors and heart rates when listening to reggae music compared to other genres!

Thundershirts: For dogs who need a little extra comfort, we use Thundershirts. These are snug-fitting anxiety vests that apply gentle, constant pressure, similar to swaddling an infant. For many dogs, the effect is almost immediate. We have sizes available for every pup in our care.

Calming Lavender Spray: We use a lavender essential oil spray throughout the facility, known for its naturally calming and soothing properties. It’s subtle, safe to use around dogs, and surprisingly effective at taking the edge off for anxious pups.

Fans to Block Firework Sound: Our facility runs fans placed throughout the space to help keep the air fresh and mask the sound of fireworks. Combined with the music, it creates a consistent sound environment that reduces the startling effect of unexpected booms outside.

Extra Love and Attention: Some pups just need a little more TLC during the holiday, and our team is happy to provide it. Whether that means extra cuddle time or simply sitting with a nervous dog until they settle, our staff is fully present and attentive all holiday weekend.

Calming Medications: For dogs with severe anxiety, we strongly recommend speaking with your veterinarian ahead of the holiday about calming supplements or medications. As with any other medication, let our team know and we’ll administer it as directed throughout their stay.

Book Early! Holiday Boarding Fills Fast

Fourth of July is one of our busiest weekends of the year, and spots fill up very quickly. If your pup prefers a quieter, smaller-group environment, ask us about availability at Bone Home. Reserve your pup’s stay early by calling us at either (949) 650-2692 or (714) 604-1414, or by emailing info@theboneadventure.com.

From all of us at The Bone Adventure, have a safe, happy, and fun Fourth of July! We’ve got the pups covered.