Fireworks on the 4th of July isn’t usually an event you can share with your dog.
Most dogs I know are fearful of the thunderous crashes and booms. Every 4th of July you’d find my childhood dog, Happy, hiding under the bed. Some dogs are so distressed, they can’t be left alone, or they need medication to keep them calm.
Then one holiday, several years ago, I discovered something amazing about my spaniel, Kelly.
At the time, my son was at college, my daughter was married and living out of state, and I was struggling with living in an empty nest. That day, also, my husband was away on business. So I was celebrating my favorite holiday alone. But I couldn’t miss the fireworks!
As a kid, the 4th of July included picnics, swimming, three-legged races in the Vermont sun. And then, at dusk, the breathtaking fireworks display. I was fascinated by the colors, watching them grow and morph into circles, spirals and hearts. I clapped as showers of sparkles rained down. I was mesmerized. I still feel that way.
As I got ready to go out on my own that night, my spaniel Kelly sat by the door and cocked her head.
“You don’t want to go,” I said. “Fireworks are noisy.”
She just sat there and looked at me, her rust-colored hair brushing down atop her big, pleading eyes.
“Wait here,” I said. “I won’t be long. You’ll be happier here.”
But no, Kelly seemed to say. I”ll be happier with you.
So I clipped on Kelly’s leash and took her along. There was a viewing area a short walk from my house—far enough away that the clamor of explosions would be dampened and close enough that we could return home if necessary. Kelly pranced along happily.
I spread out a blanket and sat among the crowd, Kelly pressed in close at my side. The setting sun cast a lovely glow. I waited in anticipation until, at last, the first great burst appeared. A distant boom, and then a gentle crackle echoed.
READ MORE: THE BLESSING OF A HEART DOG
Kelly raised her head and looked up at the sky. Her ears perked. She stared. Then another color spread across the night sky, and another. The crashes and bangs didn’t faze her. The whole time she kept her gaze on the sky, as if in awe. Just like me. Was she fascinated by the remarkable display, too? I patted her neck as we watched together.
When the show was over we walked home quietly, bonded by the shared experience of flowers blooming in the sky.
This year I can’t wait for the 4th of July fireworks display, to share with my whole family—husband, kids, new granddaughter…and our golden retriever Ike, if he’s willing. And of course my furry friend Kelly, who maybe loves fireworks as much as I do.
