We all know that fireworks aren’t only let off on Bonfire Night or New Year’s Eve. It seems that they are used in almost every celebration in recent years. As dog owners, this really isn’t helpful as most of our dogs simply hate the noise and become very distressed. In some cases, it can take several days to supress that anxiety. It’s not just dogs that are very frightened of fireworks: wildlife, cattle, horses, small pets and other domesticated animals can all be very scared. Animals have enhanced senses making them aware of loud bangs far away, flashes and vibrations before us humans.
Dogs can present signs of distress in several ways: pacing, refusing to eat, yawning and licking lips, digging, hiding away, shaking, barking and even aggression towards their owners. But there are things we, as owners, can do to help!
If you have a puppy, you can start desensitising them when they are very small. You can do this by playing pre-recorded sounds of fireworks or thunder (which dogs can also find distressing). Once your puppy tolerates the noise, you can gradually increase the volume to prepare them for the real thing. Remember to always reward “good” behaviour with a treat or a cuddle!
For older dogs, it is a little bit more tricky, especially if they are rescue. However, this is not to say you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. Desensitising and rewarding your dog is key. Again, you can play pre-recorded sounds (gradually increasing in volume over time) and praise your dog when they tolerate the noise. Try not to praise “bad” behaviour and pander to your dog when they are scared (no matter how difficult this may be). If they see you are not scared and not worried by the noise, they are less likely to be too. Good practice would be to secure your home and garden as your dog may take flight (again, remember your dog’s microchip details are up to date). To help to calm your dog, you can also purchase a pheromone plugin or spray from your vet. If you are really worried, you can also seek help from a professional behaviourist or your vet.
There are other little things we can do to help our dog. On Guy Fawkes Night or indeed New Year’s Eve, try to walk your dog early and before dark, as we all know that as soon as it’s dusk the fireworks start and generally there is no let up until midnight! You can also keep windows and doors closed, pull curtains, let your dog hide if it wishes too and keep your tone calm. If you have a plugin, make sure it is turned on well in advance (even the day before). You could also use lavender oil (available at most chemists) together with water in a small spray bottle and spray the dog’s bed area or generally around the house.
No one is trying to spoil Fireworks Night but if you don’t have pets, please spare a thought for all the pets that will be dreadfully scared and frightened. Please keep the time you let off fireworks short and please don’t let them off every day around the 5th of November and beyond. Aside from this, make sure there are lots of hot dogs, jacket potatoes, toffee apples and marshmallows consumed! Enjoy the day and be safe.
All views and opinions are my own. If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s dog you should seek advice from professional services (useful contacts can be found here).
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