Operation News- July 2026
As our nation prepares to celebrate our 250th anniversary, extra celebratory events are happening, AND it’s monsoon season with a prediction of above-average storms. Let’s talk about it.
According to Pet Amber Alert, a lost pet finder that helps our four-legged family members find their way home, animal control officials across the nation report a 30-60% increase in lost pets each year between July 4-6. This year, July 4 is a Saturday.
Many city and private events will take place toward the end of June, culminating on July 4. You can find a list of events with fireworks here.
Fireworks for personal use can be legally purchased from May 20 through July 6. However, they can only be used from June 24 through July 6. ALL AERIAL AND EXPLODING FIREWORKS ARE ILLEGAL IN ARIZONA.
Examples: sky or bottle rockets, firecrackers and aerial fireworks. Although these items are illegal to sell or use in Arizona, a quick internet search shows they can be purchased and shipped here. If people can obtain them, they will use them. Even legal ground pyrotechnics make noise.
For many people, fireworks mean celebration. For dogs, they can mean confusion, fear and stress. The loud booms, flashes of light and unusual smells can be overwhelming, even for normally calm dogs. Let’s give them a helping hand this year.
Before the Season Begins
Begin desensitization training: We’ll start by asking, “How do you react to thunder, loud noises and fireworks?” Does it make you anxious, jumpy and fearful? Our hounds look to us for cues. Stay calm!
Consider this: Find some storm and fireworks sounds (YouTube and Spotify both have them). Here’s a sample of fireworks and thunder. Play them at a low volume. Give your dog a high-value reward, whether that’s a toy to play with or a yummy food treat. Gradually increase the sound of the storm noises slowly — do this through multiple short sessions over a period of days or weeks, not all in one session. If your dog becomes visibly stressed at all by the increased volume, go back to the volume they are comfortable with. Continue this desensitization and increase the volume VERY gradually.
Tips
The “treat” (food or play) has to be highly desirable so that the emotional response it elicits is more powerful than any fear elicited by the thunder.
The thunder or storm sound has to come first so that it becomes a predictor of something good. For example, play a short snippet of thunder at a low volume, and immediately after the sound, start playing with the toy or give a food reward. Repeat this just a few times in a row (this is a session), and repeat the session multiple times a day. Gradually link louder sounds with the food or play.
Exercise Early: Give your dog a long walk or play session earlier in the day. A tired dog is often better able to relax when evening festivities or storms begin.
Create a Safe Space: Set up a quiet room with comfortable bedding, favorite toys and access to water. Close curtains or blinds to reduce flashes of light.
Update Identification: Make sure your dog’s collar has current ID tags, and that microchip information is up to date. If you have a GPS unit, make sure it’s charged. Download and print a copy of our Lost Greyhound Emergency Handbook.
Keep the Hound Indoors: Even dogs that normally enjoy the yard should remain inside during fireworks or a storm. A frightened dog can jump fences, slip collars or bolt through open gates. If your hound needs to go outside, keep them on a leash.
During the Fireworks or Storm
Increase the Background Noise: Play calming music, turn on a fan or keep the television on to help mask the sounds outside.
Stay Calm: Dogs look to us for cues. Speak in a normal, cheerful voice and avoid making a big fuss over the noises. Why not make it a party? Smile, sing, dance or just act silly. Your joy will rub off on your hound.
Provide Comfort: If your dog seeks reassurance, try offering calming signals, yawning, lying down or sitting. Remember to stay calm.
Offer Distractions: Stuffed Kongs, puzzle toys or high-value treats can help redirect your dog’s attention.
For Dogs with Severe Fireworks Anxiety
Some dogs experience extreme fear. If your dog has struggled in previous years:
If possible, give the anti-anxiety medication or calming supplement before the event.
Anxiety wraps, thunder shirts or even a snood can be very helpful.
Be your dogs’ fearless leader. Make sure he or she knows you are in charge and a calm, capable leader every day, so they will trust you to handle all situations. This is especially important for fearful dogs.
After the Celebration
Before letting your dog outside, inspect your yard for fireworks debris. Spent fireworks can contain chemicals and sharp materials that may be harmful if ingested.
This Independence Day and monsoon season, a little preparation can help ensure your hound stays safe, comfortable and stress-free.
Always moving forward,
Nancy
Nancy Lynberg is the Operations Director of Southern Arizona Greyhound Adoption and can be reached at nancy@sagreys.org.