Firework Help

As the firework period draws closer, here is some helpful advice to get you and your dog through one of the most difficult times of the year.
 
A past survey highlighted that as many as 50% of all dogs will experience stress as a result of the sudden loud bangs and unusual hissing sounds emitted by fireworks.
 
All owners are advised to prepare for the firework period in order to avoid unnecessary suffering and prevent the development of undesirable behaviours in their dogs. Here are some useful tips:

• Exercise your dog adequately during daylight hours, and keep him indoors when it is dark.

 

• If toilet outings are required during the evening, choose quieter times and make sure that you go outside with your dog.

 

• Ensure that all windows, doors and curtains are closed, and keep the television on at a slightly higher volume than normal to try and drown out the firework sounds.

 

• Provide chews, bones or food dispensing toys to occupy and distract your dog.

 

• Avoid leaving your dog at home alone during any firework activity.

 

• If your dog hears fireworks yet remains calm, try throwing him a tasty treat after each bang so that he develops a strong positive association with the sounds.

 

• Starting creating a ‘safe haven’ as soon as possible. This could be a comfy, cushioned dog crate that your dog has unrestricted access in and out of. Place it in the centre of your home, away from any external walls, and cover the sides and back with blankets (leave the front uncovered) in order to muffle the sounds outside. Over the coming weeks try to make it a place where your dog enjoys being, by placing some of his favourite things in there when he is not looking, and by not bothering him if he is in there. After a while, he will learn to associate the ‘safe haven’ with positive feelings, meaning that if he gets scared due to fireworks he will have a place to go where he knows nothing bad will happen to him, making him more likely to cope.

 

• If you are already aware of your dog having sensitivities to sounds, or believe that your dog is likely to demonstrate anxious or fearful behaviour towards fireworks, speak to your vet about the potential use of Adaptil™, nutraceuticals such as ‘Zylkene’, or even prescription medication.

 
It is important to consider all pets during this time, and further advice can be found by visiting the RSPCA website.