Tips for dog owners & 4th fireworks (or any perceived dangers!): As a dog behaviorist, I know that it is possible for dogs to go through fireworks without stress as you and I can. This is possible only when owners have taken the time to learn how to take over the area of perceived danger, an area important to dogs. When you have been elected as the decision maker by your dog, you’re treatment of fireworks as normal will cue your dog that they are not a bother and it will give them peace through it. A dog only knows how to be a dog. It’s nature and instincts drive its every move. We must never underestimate the power of the pack. If you find your status is that of a subordinate and your dog doesn’t take cues from you, remember let your nervous pet pick a safe place they can’t escape and then leave them alone. Less is more. xx