Tips to help your dog during Fireworks in the holidays

Fireworks might be awe-inspiring for some people, but many dogs are scared of fireworks and find the sound and spectacle terrifying. A dog’s survival instinct makes them naturally afraid of loud noises but fireworks are so much more than just noise to your pup. They come with no warning signs and are bright, erratic, and leave a burning smell in the air. 

Not all dogs are scared of fireworks. Every dog also reacts to fireworks differently. You can have one dog who sleeps through fireworks and one who panics at the first “pop.” This has a lot to do with nature and nurture. 

Understanding why your dog is scared of fireworks can go a long way in formulating a plan before fireworks go off.

Symptoms of Firework Anxiety in Dogs

• A sudden alertness
• Flattening their ears
• Refusing to go outside or attempting to escape the house
• Restlessness
• Shaking or trembling
• Panting
• Excessive vocalizing (whining, barking, etc.)
• Hiding
• Becoming extra clingy

From flashes to booming sounds, the startling nature of fireworks triggers the “flight or fright or freeze” effect in dogs. This causes dogs to perceive fireworks as a threat or potential harm, which then manifests into fear and panic.

But how you can help your dogs to be safe and relieve during fireworks?

1. Before the Firework begin:

• If you notice that your dog could have firework anxiety consider using Sound Training or Counter conditioning and Desensitization. (example of the training on the video below)
• Keep your dog away from Fireworks. Don’t take your dogs to fireworks shows or live them outside
• Make alternate arrangements for your dog, especially if you plan on going out or live close to a fireworks display. A couple of options would be dropping your pup off at a friend or relative’s house, a dog daycare, a boarding facility, or even hiring a pet sitter to stay with them. That way if your dog does get scared, they are somewhere safe with supervision.
• Make sure your pet has a proper ID. Ensure that the information on your pet’s collar is current and make sure your dog is microchipped and has a tag or GPS device.
• Schedule a Pre-Fireworks workout. A tired dog is a calm dog, so be sure to get as much exercise before the festivities begin. The goal is to have your dog as sleepy as possible when the fireworks begin. So a walk around the block may not cut it. Try going for a run or playing fetch at the park. You can also give your dog a special treat they can enjoy to make them mentally tired. A Kong frozen with peanut butter, a bully stick, or any other type of long-lasting chew, will be the perfect thing to help keep their mind occupied. This way you will have a dog physically and mentally drained.
• Schedule meals and potty time early. It’s important to time your dog’s dinner and potty trips well in advance of nightfall since fireworks typically start as soon as the sun sets. There’s nothing worse than a dog that’s scared of fireworks that needs a potty break but is too terrified to step out the door. Give your dog enough time to finish his dinner, digest, and potty before the noise begins so he’s not forced to hold it during an already stressful period.

2. During active fireworks:

• Stay calm. Dogs sense even the tiniest changes.  If you feel nervous, your dog may also interpret fireworks as the problem. So take some deep breaths and remain calm.
• Create a safe space for your dog where they can feel comfortable. Try setting up an area in a quiet space away from windows, like the bathroom or a larger closet, so that they can’t hear or see fireworks. Use a crate if that’s where your dog feels safe, and make sure to provide your pup with familiar toys and treats.
• Play White Noise or relaxing Music. You can try leaving a fan, TV, or radio on to help mask the sounds of the fireworks.
• Put on a pressure wrap or vest: one option could be the ThunderShirt. This vest behaves similarly to a “hug”, applying even pressure across the torso.
• Pheromones. Dog-appeasing pheromones mimic the pheromones produced by a dog mother, creating a sense of calm in dogs. It’s available as diffuser, spray, or collar.
• If your dog has severe firework anxiety consider speaking with your vet about anti-anxiety medication for dogs. 

Remember always to keep your furry friend save