Help Your Dog Stay Worry-Free During Fireworks
Hey there,
Loud noises and sounds can really freak dogs out, and a fireworks show is probably the worst noise monster a fearful dog can face. Miss Morty is really not a big fan of fireworks either. I often would have monologues with Morty trying to prepare her. Unfortunately, it won’t help her much. But if you know a night of fireworks is coming up, here are some ways to help your dog stay a little more comfortable.
Plan Ahead.
It’s a good idea to check for the dates of community fireworks displays during celebratory seasons, and make sure your dog’s collar ID and microchip registration are up to date.
Create Distance.
When you know a firework display is scheduled nearby, or you see your neighbors setting up for a display, ask a friend if you can bring your dog over for an evening chat or movie – unless your dog finds trips even more stressful.
Set Up a Quiet Safe Space
Set up a quiet safe space in your home where your dog is comfortable and the sound of fireworks is muffled, like a finished basement or an internal room like a walk-in closet. Spend time with your dog there, with toys and treats, well before the fireworks season begins. I like to bring in Morty’s favorite treats, toys, her bed, as well as tons of pillows, and a favorite book for me whenever we hang out in the walk-in closet. We are in it together and might as well make it as much comfort for both you and your pup as possible.
Desensitize your dog
Desensitize your dog by playing a recording of fireworks at a very low level for short periods, multiple times a day, and rewarding calm behavior with treats. If your dog is extremely fearful of noises, before taking this step, think about consulting an experienced dog behaviorist for expert guidance. I have suggestions for you at the end of this article.
Go for a long walk well before dark.
A happily tired dog is a more relaxed dog. Exercise your pup with fun play or a long walk so they are ready to nap when night falls. Make sure their collar or harness is slip-proof, because some people celebrate with firecrackers and other noisemakers before darkness falls.
Close Windows and Curtains
Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound and block out flashes of light.
Turn on the TV, Music, or White Noise
like a fan, to provide a familiar, alternate sound. Make sure whatever you use is already familiar to your dog – even fans can be anxiety-causing if they are fired up without warning. Here are my few favorites music for dogs,Zoundz and Relax My Dog, to help Morty relax.
Try an Anxiety Wrap
Soft, stretchy jackets and vests built specifically for a dog’s shape are reported to be effective at reducing anxiety. I suggest you slowly introduce your dog to their coat well before fireworks season descends. I have purchased a Thundershirt for Morty and have seen some positive reactions. If you’ve been thinking of buying a wrap, another well-known brand is Calmz.
Don’t Fuss Over Your Dog
I know it’s hard not to be upset when you see your dog distressed, especially when you know they are safe. However, if you frantically console them, or make angry comments about inconsiderate neighbors, your distress or anger can strengthen your dog’s belief that something is wrong. You can certainly soothe your dog but do so in a calm, reassuring, and positive manner. When Morty is upset, I like to sit right next to her, gently and slowly stroke her body, tell Morty I’m there for her and remind myself to take a deep relaxing breath to help calm both of us.
Gently Distract Your Dog
Turn those fireworks into background chatter by engaging in normal fun activities like playing with a toy, running through training exercises, or inviting your dog on the couch for a movie night. Treat dispensing dog toy is a great option for a fun distraction! But don’t pull your dog out from a safe space they have chosen and force your dog to play if they would rather hide.
Consult a Professional
Is your dog’s quality of life suffering, or are they so panicked they could injure themselves, or you, while trying to escape? Dog trainers, dog behaviorists, veterinarians, and veterinary behaviorists can offer a range of options from counter-conditioning to medication. If you are in Minnesota, check out Veterinary Behavior Specialties of Minnesota. Also, some options to your national online resource to locate a veterinary behaviorist in the US and CANADA, or the UK.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, a number of studies highlight that dogs value social support from their humans. Like a child afraid of a loud noise turning and running toward a parent, dogs facing stressful situations have been found to turn to their pet parents as safe havens. We might not be able to fix every unpleasant moment for our dogs, but we can provide a buffer against stress in dogs…simply just by being there for them.