Many dogs dislike the noise associated with fireworks during 4th of July festivities. In most cases, dogs with noise anxieties did not receive proper socialization experiences during their puppy imprint period. If you have a puppy, it's very important to work with a trainer to take advantage of unique teaching window before 4 months of age. Healthy imprinting can avoid many common problems seen in adult dogs.

If your adult dog has issues with fireworks, there are still some things that may help.

• Do not take your dog to a firework display. The inability to control the volume and stressors will generally make an anxious dog much worse.
• Keeping your dog indoors will reduce firework noise, and allow you to use the TV or music to create calmer sound backgrounds. Fans and running water can also help provide calming background noise.
• Simply ignoring firework noises and going about normal activities is the best way to teach dogs with mild anxiety there is no cause for concern.
• Engaging your dog with play or a favorite toy during times of mild stress can also provide a calming distraction.
• Practicing obedience commands is a good way to refocus a dog's attention away from a stressor.
• For some dogs, a car ride may be an enjoyable alternative to a period usually associated with stress.
• Although coddling a nervous dog seems comforting to humans, in many cases it will increase a dog's anxiety. Dogs generally interpret touch as an affirmation that you are concerned as well. Staring at your dog or acting worried about him/her will be interpreted the same way. Interacting with your dog in a normal, matter of fact way, is generally far more beneficial.
• Be sure that your dog has ID tags and is microchipped. Every year there are many dogs that run off in response to the noises associated with the 4th of July - even from homes and fenced yards.

Dogs with severe reactions to fireworks may exhibit panting, drooling, shaking, etc. Do your best to reduce the stressors as they occur, then consider consulting with a trainer or veterinarian for options that may better help you deal with your dog's anxiety in the future.

This video has some basic tips on protecting you pet in the summer heat. Dogs do not cool themselves as efficiently as we can, so exercising earlier in the day and keeping your dog hydrated are key in staying safe.

This NC Fire Dept has adopted a dog is saved from a fire. The dog was up for adoption, so the Dept. decided to adopt it as a station pet.

This Burien Police Dog named Gino was stabbed while chasing a shoplifting suspect. Police shot the suspect who is in the hospital. Gino was taken to a Veterinary hospital where he underwent surgery to repair a 4" cut to his throat. The wound did not compromise the dog's arteries or airway, but he will require several weeks to recover. The dog's Officer/handler has the dog back at home for some well deserved rest.

This story is from Athens, GA where 3 dogs were loose when a 13 year old was headed home. The child ran after becoming frightened by the dogs and they gave chase and attacked. This is a common scenario in many dog attacks - dogs in groups experience heightened pack drives making them far more likely to chase and attack.

The story mentions the dogs were from a home where someone may have attempted a break in. In other words, the dogs may have gotten loose after a door was forced open. Police are investigating. 2 of the dogs were small terriers, the 3rd a pitbull. The owner says they had no history of violence.