While we humans look forward to enjoying the Fourth of July celebrations and the New Year with fireworks, our dogs may not be so thrilled by these events, sights and sounds.
Our dogs may react differently to these loud noises with whimpering, panting, trembling, extreme neediness and even in desperation would even run into glass doors because they are so scared and would do this effort to escape.
As responsible pet owners, here's how you will be able to ease your pet dog's fear of fireworks and keep him calm so that you can both have an enjoyable holiday.

• Keep your dog indoors on events like the Fourth of July or New Year.
  Don't try to take your dog with you outside during a fireworks display or into the backyard, garage, driveway, or on the road where firecrackers are being used.
  If you usually take your dog outside, make sure you make adjustments and do this before the scheduled events start.
  When the firework festivities begin, be sure that by this time you and your dog are in the comfort of your home where your dog can feel safe.
  
• Close the doors and windows of your home so the sound of the fireworks will be minimized.
  You can also close the drapes or blinds of the windows in your home to block the lights and the flashes that will be produced by the fireworks.
  
• If the noise inside your home is still causing some anxiety for your dog try using some white noise as a distraction.
  Playing some music, turn on a television or a fan.
  Create some background noise that your dog is accustomed to hearing on a daily basis to help muffle the sounds of the fireworks.
  
• Distract your dog by playing with him or doing some basic obedience drills.
  Introduce a new toy that he can chew to help relieve stress.
  This will divert his attention from the scary sounds and will thus keep him occupied.
  Provide him with extra attention so he won't have to deal with his fears alone.
  
• Exercise your dog more than normal on the day of the scheduled fireworks.
  Take your dog out for an extended run or jog early evening before dusk.
  This will help to tire your dog out which will help in decreasing anxiety and fear due to sheer exhaustion

Dogs, like people, experience stress and anxiety.
If your dog is frightened by environmental sounds such as fireworks, it is your responsibility to work on desensitizing them over a period of time and in the meantime, keep them as comfortable and relaxed during frightening events.