Fireworks season is upon us! Many dog owners dread this time as no one likes seeing their pets distressed. While we cannot control when and where fireworks will go off, there are some precautions we can take to keep our dogs safe and help them get through the firework season.
1. ALL DOGS CAN DEVELOP AVERSIVE REACTION TO FIREWORKS
Even if your dog hasn't shown an aversive reaction in the past, it does not mean they won't this time around. Dogs' confidence and optimism changes based on their experiences and their ability to cope with stressors might change over time. Young puppies rarely seem affected by fireworks but they can develop fear of them later on in life. Dogs' can also pick up on the emotions of another dog in the household.
So even if your dog was unaffected by the fireworks in the past, it is always best to be prepared and take precautions to maintain their neutral response and prevent them from developing fear of fireworks in the future.
2. AVOID WALKING YOUR DOG AFTER DARK
Fireworks are most often set off after dark so avoid walking your dog during the evenings.
If your dog is sensitive to change in routine, start getting them used to a new walking schedule.
If your work or family schedule does not allow you to walk your dog earlier in the day, try and get up an hour earlier to give your dog a longer walk first thing in the morning. For some, a lunchtime walk might also be an option.
3. PLAN EVENING ENTERTAINMENT FOR YOUR DOG
To keep your dog content in the evening, plan some training sessions that deliver mental and physical stimulation. This could be trick training, scent training, a game of find the toy, a treat trail… or anything else your dog might enjoy. It doesn’t have to be complicated, be creative with what you have available to you.
4. FIREWORKS CAN GO OFF AT ANYTIME, NOT JUST THE EVENING!
Unfortunately it is not uncommon for fireworks to be set off in the middle of the day during firework season. So it is more important than ever to ensure that your dog has a well fitted collar and / or harness which they cannot escape and a well functioning lead clip, along with an up to date ID tag.
If your dog is a flight risk in response to fireworks, it might be a good idea to keep them on a lead or use a long line throughout the firework season.
5. GARDEN SCHEDULE
Ensure your garden is secure. Check for holes in the fence, loose garden gates, items by the fence which your dog can jump on to get out. If there is a risk of your dog getting out of your garden when frightened, which cannot be addressed e.g. low fence, it might be a good idea to not allow unsupervised access to the garden or to have them on a long line and only take them out for toileting.
6. TOILETING ON A VERBAL CUE
Teaching your dog to toilet on a verbal cue can be really useful once the firework season starts. It can help reduce the time of the nighttime toilet breaks and ensure your pet is toileted before and in between fireworks, To teach your dog to toilet on a cue, watch out for the signs of your dog looking for a toileting spot, say your cue (we use 'quick, quick') few times as they are looking for their spot. As soon as they finish toileting, praise and feed. Your dog will soon build an association between your cue and toileting.
7. NATURAL CALMING REMEDIES
It might be a good idea to invest in natural calming remedies such as calming plug-in diffusers (we like the PetRemedy diffusers) and / or natural calming supplements or treats. Always consult your vet before starting your dog on any new supplements / medication. Be aware that natural remedies need time to build in your dog’s system and will not have an immediate effect. It is best to start these at least 4-6 weeks ahead of any stressful period or event.
8. UPDATE YOUR DOG'S DETAILS
Check your dog’s microchip and ID tag to ensure all details, including address and contact phone numbers are up to date.
9. DRAW OUT NOISE & LIGHTS
Make sure to pull all the curtains shut to minimise the lights from the fireworks.
To draw out the noise keep a radio or a TV on a higher volume. Pick channels with music or action movies rather than talk shows as they will cover up the loud bangs better. Have your devices on before the fireworks start.
10. LEAD BY EXAMPLE
Keep calm during fireworks and try to remain neutral. Our dogs’ feed off our energy so we need to lead by example. You can comfort your dog if they ask for it but do not draw attention to the event by becoming overly attentive towards them. If they think you are worried, they will become more stressed.
11. RECOGNISE AND RESPECT YOUR DOG'S NEEDS AT THE TIME
If your dog feels the need to stay hidden, let them. If they need comfort, offer calm support, if they need to stay away, give them space, if they feel unaffected, do not draw unnecessary attention to the situation. Trying to get your dog to follow commands or put extra pressure on them while stressed, can make the situation worse.
12. A SAFE SPACE
Create a safe space for your dog to seek shelter if they wish to. Think of a den like area. Pick a smaller space and cover it with a blanket to create an enclosed area. A crate, a space between two armchairs or under a table can all work well. Set it up a week or two ahead and build a positive association by feeding your dog in that area or offering treats and long lasting chews there. Do not trap your dog in their safe spaces by closing crate doors etc. A space will only feel safe if they can exit it if needed.
13. CHEWING AND LICKING TO THE RESCUE
Chewing and licking can help relieve stress and keep your dog occupied. Natural chews, stuffed feeding toys such as KONGs or lickimats are a great way to keep your dog occupied. If your dog is not yet used to feeding activities, try and introduce them before the firework periods starts. Pick something super yummy to stuff feeding toys and choose only natural, dried meat chews. On the nights when fireworks might be expected, give your dog their feeding activity before they become distressed as they might not want to engage with it once their stress levels become too high.
14. EXTRA HELP FROM YOUR VET
For dogs who have severe response to fireworks, consult your vet about medication which can help relieve the symptoms and reduce stress. Depending on your dog's medical history and severity of their response, your vet will be able to advise the best course of action.
15. SPREAD THE WORD
If you found this post helpful, share it with friends and family to help keep all dogs safe this firework season!
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