DTC certified Professional Dog Trainer and Dorwest Ambassador, Amy Taylor gives us her last-minute top tips to help your dog for fireworks night.
“While many people enjoy this time of year, for our pets, these loud noises can be a source of great anxiety & fear. Here are my last-minute tips for on the night of fireworks to support your pet’s anxiety!
1. On the day
- Exercise early: Take your dog for a long walk or play session earlier in the day to help them burn off excess energy. Take them out before it gets dark for a final toilet break.
- Make sure your dog has an ID tag attached to a collar: This is a just in case if your dog escapes at any time, such as if you are caught off guard or they escape from an open door (but ideally these will remain closed at all times)
- Create a safe space: Use your dog’s favourite bed or blanket to create a comfortable spot.
2. Create a distraction
Sometimes, engaging your dog’s mind can help alleviate anxiety:
- Interactive toys: Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys can keep your dog occupied and distracted from the noise.
- Training sessions: If your dog enjoys training, short, positive reinforcement sessions can help redirect their focus.
- Calming activities: Any activity that involves sniffing, licking or chewing will help your dog’s arousal levels as all these types of activities are self-soothing.
(This will only work if your dog is in a position where they can cope so don’t be disheartened if they do not engage with your distraction. They probably just need a safe space and comfort)
3. Stay calm and reassuring
Dogs can sense their owner’s emotions, so it’s vital to remain calm. Here are some of my tips:
- Be present: Spend time in the safe space with your dog, providing comfort and reassurance. It’s a common myth that doing this will teach your dog there is something to be fearful of, but don’t worry this isn’t the case because you can’t reinforce an emotion.
- Avoid punishment: If your dog is acting out due to fear, do not scold them. Instead, offer positive reinforcement for calm behaviour or general support.
4. Consider additional support
- Natural calming supplements: Valerian Compound calming liquid works within 20-30 minutes and lasts up to two hours
- Thunder shirts or body wrapping: These snug-fitting garments apply gentle pressure to help calm anxious dogs. Please be sure to condition your dog to this garment and ensure they are comfortable wearing it before the event. (Note: not all dogs enjoy this type of holistic support and can have opposite effects, just like in humans)
5. Soundproofing and blocking visuals in the area
While you can’t completely eliminate the noise and visuals, you can dilute them:
- Close windows and doors: Make sure all windows and doors are securely shut to minimise noise.
- Close curtains or hang blankets: Helps to block out light and sound.
- Play soothing music: This can help drown out the sound of fireworks, creating a calming atmosphere.
- Position a fan facing the corner of a room: This creates air disturbance in the room which can help, it also produces a white noise effect which can be relaxing for the dog as another source of background noise (on top of other sources) and an added bonus is that it keeps the room cool, particularly if your dog if struggling and consequently panting heavily.
After the fireworks
Once the noise has subsided, check in on your dog. They may still be feeling residual anxiety, so offering gentle affection and a calm environment is crucial. Spend some time together and reward them with treats or their favourite activities as a way to re-establish a sense of normalcy.
Post fireworks
Dogs may carry some levels of stress/anxiety for up to 1 week (on average around 72 hours) so be mindful of the activities you do with your dog during this time.
I recommend plenty of decompression activities and safe walks/exercise. Their heightened emotions may cause them to act out of character at smaller triggers so bear this in mind with the behaviours they choose.
Remember, this will restart after each episode of fireworks.
Fireworks can be a source of fear for many dogs, but with careful planning and a little extra love, you can create a safe space that helps your four-legged friend feel secure. Remember, your support and understanding are invaluable in helping them navigate these stressful moments. Here’s to a happy and safe firework season for you and your pets!”
