Captain Kody Says: Stars, Stripes, and Graham’s Ice Cream!

This past week at training class, Kody performed so well that his dad decided to take him downtown on Sunday and share an ice cream cone with him at Graham’s. It was the first ice cream cone of the summer for my dad, and Kody’s first time trying ice cream—and the two had a wonderfully, delicious experience.

Not that ice cream is particularly good for humans or dogs, but if it is from in Geneva, then it is worth every bite. Kody enjoyed some bonding time with his dad, a cool, sweet treat and time observing the other admirable, all-American dogs that stopped by for a creamy treat with their owners, as well.

Captain Kody is anxious (actually, I am the one who is anxious) to sport some patriotic apparel to celebrate his first Fourth of July, but based on advice he’s been getting from other canines in Geneva, he asked me to remind you that this holiday weekend can be very traumatic and unsettling for dogs, cats and other pets.

While you cannot control all of the loud snaps, pops, booms and shrill noises that will be heard by your pet as Independence Day is celebrated, you can take care and pay close attention to ensure that your pet feels as safe, calm and secure as possible.

Remember: Dogs and cats can hear much better than humans do, and the noises of the weekend are loud and threatening to them. Please do your part to be kind to them this weekend by keeping them indoors and away from explosives.

If you head out for a fireworks show, you may want to leave the radio on or even play some soothing music to relax your pet while he is home and to muffle the loud sounds of the evening. It is normal if your pet is skittish or nervous throughout the day, but if you keep him distracted by loudly singing the chorus of God Bless the USA and America the Beautiful at the top of your lungs, he will probably forget about all of the crazy noises outside and just listen to you. But be careful, your neighbors might just be listening, too!

Happy Fourth of July!