Doesn’t it seem like firework season starts earlier and earlier every year?! From Halloween through to New Year’s Eve (via Bonfire Night and Christmas!), firework season can be an absolute nightmare for dog owners and their pets.
As dog owners, it’s important for us to try to calm and comfort our four-legged friends during these unavoidable firework displays, which unfortunately can be extremely stressful for them. Fortunately we’re able to offer some helpful tips and advice on how to keep your canine companion calm and safe during firework season.
Why Are Fireworks Stressful for Dogs?
Despite our efforts to humanise our dogs, we need to remember that they experience the world very differently from us, especially when it comes to their senses. Their sense of hearing is far more sensitive than ours, which allows them to hear frequencies beyond what we humans can detect. Sudden, loud noises can not only be startling or frightening, but they can also create a feeling of disorientation as dogs don’t understand what’s happening and have no concept of what a firework even is.
How Do I Know If My Dog Is Stressed?
This may seem really obvious to many experienced dog owners, however some of the signs are more subtle than others. Some of the common signs of stress and anxiety caused by fireworks include:
- Pacing or Restlessness: Dogs may move around nervously, unable to settle.
- Shaking or Trembling: Physical signs of stress often manifest as trembling.
- Hiding: Dogs may seek refuge in enclosed spaces like under beds or behind furniture.
- Whining, Barking or Howling: Vocalisation is a common response to anxiety.
- Drooling or Panting: Excessive salivation and panting can indicate distress.
- Destructive Behaviour: Dogs may chew or scratch at doors, furniture or soft furnishings.
- Loss of Bladder Control: Some dogs may urinate or defecate indoors out of fear.
What Can I Do To Help?
Preparation is key when it comes to firework season, so plan ahead and put things in place to help your four-legged friend stay calm. Things you could do include:
1. Create a Safe Space: Set up a cosy, quiet spot where your dog can safely retreat to when they’re feeling stressed. This could be a crate or a small room with a bed, blankets, and some of their favourite toys. Over time, they will learn to associate this space with safety.
2. Consider Playing Fireworks Sounds: This may seem like a bit of a mad idea, but many dog owners swear by it. Help your dog get used to the sound of fireworks by playing firework soundtracks on low volume, gradually increasing the sound over time. You could even combine this with treats or playtime, so that they associate the sound with something positive.
3. Stick to a Routine: Dogs find comfort in routine, so try to keep their daily walks, feeding times, and playtime consistent. That said, if their routine includes a night-time walk, perhaps adjust that and try to walk your dog earlier in the day before fireworks are likely to start.
4. Tire Them Out: If you know there is likely to be fireworks in the evening, try to tire your dog out as much as possible during the day so that they are more likely to sleep through any loud bangs in the evening. This is very much the ‘go to’ strategy with Axel.
5. Calming Supplements: Consider using a calming supplement in the lead-up to firework season. There are lots of options on the market, including natural and herbal supplements. It’s important to do your research and speak with your veterinarian for advice first.
Do’s & Don’ts – 5 Top Tips
It’s all well and good being prepared, however when the fireworks actually start going off, it’s a different story. Things you can do to help include:
1. Close Windows and Curtains: Closing your windows and curtains reduces the sound and eliminates any visual stimulus for your dog.
2. Keep Your Dog Indoors: This may seem obvious, but it’s vital to make sure your dog is safely secured indoors when fireworks are going off. Frightened dogs may attempt to run away from the sound, resulting in them getting lost or injured in the process.
3. Comfort and Reassure Your Dog: Dogs often feel safer with their owners nearby, so stay home with your dog during the fireworks if possible. Your dog will also pick up on your emotions, so if you’re stressed or anxious, your dog will likely sense it and become more agitated themselves.
4. Engage in Distraction Techniques: Try to distract your doggo with interactive toys or games. Puzzle toys filled with treats can keep them mentally engaged and focused on something other than the loud noises. Similarly, a long-lasting chew or treat can be useful as chewing is a natural stress-reliever for them.
5. Avoid Punishment: Remember that this can be a really stressful and disorienting experience for your dog, so avoid punishing them. Punishment can increase their anxiety and compound any behavioural issues, so instead try to offer gentle reassurance. Even though you might be pulling your hair out on the inside, try not to show it on the outside.
The sights, sounds and even smells of fireworks can be extremely triggering for our four-legged friends so it’s important to be mindful of their health and wellbeing before, during and after any fireworks display. Once the fireworks are over, give your doggo plenty of time to calm down. Offer them comfort and allow them to retreat to their safe space if needed. A calm, reassuring presence from you will help them get back their normal selves more quickly.
If you notice signs of extreme stress or continued behavioural changes however, it’s a good idea to consult your vet for advice.
Conclusion
Firework season can be a stressful time for dogs (and their owners!), however with the right preparation you can at least give yourself a fighting chance of keeping your pet calm and relaxed during the inevitable firework displays to come.
The key is creating a safe, comfortable and relaxed environment for your doggo, remembering that any behavioural changes are involuntary and (most importantly) temporary. Try to remain calm and remember that it will pass. For more helpful advice and guidance, check out our Blog Hub or contact us directly by emailing hello@axelselixir.com and we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.