Bark Busters Offers July 4th Safety Tips for Dog Owners.

World's Largest Dog Training Company Strives to Keep Dogs Safe, Comfortable During Holiday Revelry 

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- With the annual excitement and commotion of Independence Day approaching, Bark Busters, the world's largest dog training company, offers helpful tips for the estimated 38.8 million U.S. dog owners on how to keep their dogs safe and calm during July 4th festivities.

"Independence Day celebrations can be great fun for humans, but the noise and visual stimulation can be traumatic for dogs," said Liam Crowe, president and master dog behavioral therapist of Bark Busters USA. "By following a few precautions and being aware, we can keep our dogs safe and as comfortable as possible during Fourth of July revelry."

Crowe offers the following Independence Day pointers:

* Understand that dogs don't like fireworks. The bangs, explosions and bright lights - accompanied by screams, sirens, and other howling dogs - create confusion and fear. It's not uncommon for dogs to run away from home after being frightened by fireworks.

* Don't leave dogs outside. Bring your dogs inside to protect them. If this isn't possible, cover the crate or kennel with a blanket to offer protection from the bright flashes and loud bangs. Always remember a dog's sense of hearing is acute - more than 10 times more sensitive than humans'.

* Keep your dog away from doors. Your dog may be under significant stress, which could result in unnecessary injury to others or cause your pet to dart out the door and get lost.

* It's always best to create a special area or "den" where your dog feels safe. A properly introduced crate or kennel can be a great den for your dog.

* Keep windows and curtains closed to reduce noise and bright flashes.

* Turn on a TV or radio to distract your dog from noises and help him or her relax. Classical music is the most calming.

* Try to stay with your pet during the majority of the fireworks, if possible. A dog often reacts more intensely to loud noises and flashing lights when you are not there.

* Always have identification on your dogs, in case they get out. Consider talking to your veterinarian about implanting a microchip in your pet and make sure that your veterinarian and animal shelter have current information in their databases.

"Independence Day is a time for celebration," Crowe said. "With these precautions, you and your pets can have a safe and happy holiday experience."

Bark Busters' dog behavioral therapists are renowned authorities in correcting dog behavior. Bark Busters' natural training system can successfully train any dog, even a puppy, by leveraging the same communications methods - body language and voice control - that dogs follow as part of their instinctual pack mentality. Bark Busters is the only international dog training company that offers a written lifetime guarantee.

About Bark Busters:

Bark Busters, the world's largest dog training company, started in Australia in 1989 and came to the United States in 2000. Since inception, over 350,000 dogs have been trained worldwide using its dog-friendly, natural method. With 220+ franchised offices in 40 states and more than 325 offices in 8 countries, Bark Busters is continuing its mission to build a global network of dog behavioral therapists to enhance responsible dog ownership and reduce abandonment and euthanasia of companion dogs. For information, call 877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com, where dog owners can complete a Behavioral Quiz to rate their dogs' behavior.