With bonfire night just around the corner that means only one thing to dog owners – the dreaded fireworks!
Fireworks
Although fireworks are a sign of celebration and most people enjoy watching them, to a dog, the loud, sudden noises and bright sparks lighting up the sky can be terrifying, so it’s essential you know how to keep your dog calm, during what can be a very scary time.
Not only is this important to keep your dog happy, but a frightened dog can become aggressive – which is especially dangerous if you have children in the house.
Not all dogs are afraid of fireworks, but that doesn’t mean they won’t suddenly develop a real phobia, so the first thing to do is make sure you can recognise even the subtle signs that your dog might be uneasy.
Signs of anxiety
Dogs display fear and anxiety in many different ways, and although some of these are obvious, some are easily overlooked, but just as traumatising for your pet.
- Vocalising – barking, howling, whining
- Trembling or shaking
- Cowering, hiding or pacing
- Salivating, yawning and panting
- Urination and soiling
- Destructive behaviour and pacing
- Refusing to eat, or a decreased appetite
Whether your dog suffered with these symptoms last year or not, there are a few things you can do on the run up to bonfire night that will help to ensure your pet feels safe and secure when the fireworks start.
Preparing your dogs
The first thing to do is make sure your dog has a bolt-hole. A cosy den, with plenty of blankets somewhere quiet and out of the way – if your dog has a crate, cover it with a blanket so it’s more den-like, but if not behind the sofa, under the bed or table or even in the bottom of a wardrobe will be perfect.
Positive association
Start to reward your pet for using this bed with treats and toys to create a positive and happy association, that will provide reassurance and comfort if they become scared. You can even speak to your vet about use calming pheromones, which are available in a plug-in or spray, to help reduce them settle in.
Dog collars and identity tags
Another essential thing to consider is what will happen to your pet if they become scared and manage to run away. Although this is something most dog-owners are prepared for any way, just be sure that your dogs collar fits properly, their identity tags are readable and have your phone number on and that their microchip details are up to date.
Also, make sure you find out the dates of local firework displays and ask neighbours if they are planning a party.
On the night
Unfortunately there is no fail-safe way to keep your dog calm during bonfire night, but the tips below are the ones we find most useful.
- Never take a dog to a fireworks display. Even if they are calm and usually well-behaved, you never know when your dog will become spooked, and not only is a scared dog unpredictable and possibly dangerous, it would be cruel to inflict this type of fear on your pet.
- Walk your dog before it gets dark and the fireworks start. If you can, take them for an extra-long walk and let them run around to wear them out a bit.
- Physical exercise is tiring, but a mental exercise is great too – try teaching them a new trick to really wear them out!
- Make sure your dog’s water bowl is filled up – anxious dogs, especially if they pant, yawn and salivate, will be very thirsty. Try placing an extra water bowl near their den or chosen hiding place, in case they are too afraid to venture far.
- If you have any other outdoor pets, such as cats, rabbits or guinea pigs, bring them indoors, and maybe provide extra bedding for them to hide away in.
- Close the curtains and leave the lights on to stop the fireworks lighting up the room as much and turn on the TV or radio, to drown out some of the noise.
- Don’t respond to any initial signs of anxiety, and don’t acknowledge the fireworks. If you continue to act normally, hopefully your pet will see there is nothing to worry about, and even though it’s difficult to resist comforting them, this will only reinforce their fear.
- Some dogs can be easily distracted with some comfort food, a good chew-toy or a new game. But, you should only try this if your pet seems receptive; don’t force them out of a hiding place if they aren’t interested.
- If your pet hides away, either in the den you created or somewhere else, let them be. Don’t try to coax them out, the most important thing is that they’ve found a place they feel safe.
- If your dog becomes really agitated, do not try to restrain them. Taking away any control they have by not letting them respond to their fear in their own way could cause them to become aggressive.
Speak to a vet
If past experience has taught you that your dog’s fears are uncontrollable and dangerous for you and your family, or too traumatising for your pet – speak to your vet. They may be able to suggest behavioural therapy, or even a sedative that will allow your dog to relax and snooze through the fireworks.
If you would like any more advice, please get in touch with the team at Green Lane Farm. We have years of experience working with dogs, and will be happy to pass on any tips that might help you keep your dog calm and happy.
