Fireworks Night... How can we help our dogs?

This time of year is often dreaded by pet owners and for good reason. Although the situation is unlikely to change for years to come. Even with the invention of noiseless fireworks. What can we do to help our dogs cope?

The first thing to do is ask your neighbours if they are having a display in the back garden. Ask them to let you know a start time and finish so that you can prepare your dog for the noise. You can use your local Facebook page for this.

The second thing to do if you haven’t already is to help desensitise your dog to the noise of a fireworks display. Play them a YouTube video display and start with the volume very low while they are eating or training with you indoors. Then build up the sound gradually over time to help them understand the noise is nothing to worry about.

The vibrations from the fireworks are usually what causes the problem for most dogs but if they recognise the sound this may help them.

Thirdly, make sure your dog is as tired as possible before fireworks night/weekend. Remember that dogs are built for aerobic exercise so don’t just take them on a long walk. Think about in the past the times when your dog has been most tired and recreate that experience. Sniffing and searching are the most tiring exercises for dogs so bare this in mind.

Fourthly, create a safe space for your dog to hide out if they want to during the evening. For most of us, this means crate training and for those of you that have crate trained your dogs, this is the perfect place for them to go. Cover the crate with a blanket and make it a cosy, den-like space. Do not shut the dog in unless they are used to this as this may cause more stress.

During times of stress, it's important that you let your dog carry out behaviours that self-soothe. Some dogs will pant, pace, hide or seek comfort. Don’t try to stop what comes naturally to your dog as every dog is different.

Do not let your dog outside for toilet breaks alone as this is the time of year pets are most likely to go missing. Go with them or pop them on a lead before and after the display.

If you are really struggling please contact your vet as they may be able to offer some level of sedation so that your dog is able to cope.

If your dog is a repeat sufferer this time of year please get in touch to discuss training options.

Have a lovely November x