Fireworks and Frightened Dogs – Ideas to help you help them.

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FIREWORKS & FRIGHTENED DOGS

How to help you help them

FIREWORKS & FRIGHTENED DOGS

How to help you help them

Every year it’s the same feeling of fear and dread as 5 November approaches. Unless you’ve seen a scared dog, it’s hard to imagine, but the sight of a terrified dog is pitifully sad. What seems a great night out for young children and families is in fact a living nightmare for those of us who have dogs who are
fearful of fireworks.

There are steps you can take to reduce the stress. Putting a careful plan in place allows you to get through the evening together. Whilst there are no easy answers or quick fixes, it is possible to reduce your dog’s fear and regain some control of the situation by combining several ideas together.

3. Wrap up your dog: swaddle and comfort

Warm their Drying Coat on the radiator and pop it on them, fastened securely around the middle and if they are happy with the hood over the ears, fasten there too. The double-layered thick cotton towelling coat will make them feel more safe and secure, and the hoody over the ears will help to reduce the noise. Do this before fireworks begin, so you are ahead of the game.

5. Stay in with them: touch, cuddle, play, reassure

It’s obvious, but of course you need to stay in with your frightened dog. If you have no choice and must work or have to go out suddenly, arrange a back-up plan so they are not alone. Be prepared to break the rules for once and let them up on the sofa with you if you don’t normally. Breaking the rules isn’t going to do any harm long term. You can always invest in a Ruff and Tumble double layered Sofa Throw if it becomes a habit! Play with a new toy, distract with treats, and cuddle them even more than normal!

6. Be calm: they'll take your cues

If you hear fireworks, do not respond, or look anxiously at them. They will react if you do. Act as if nothing is happening, modulate your voice, talk low and slow and they will take your cues. Keep calm and pretend everything is normal and they will be reassured by your behaviour.

7. Collars and microchips: just in case

It’s a sad fact that more dogs go missing on fireworks night than any other day of the year. Make sure the collar is on and they are microchipped. If someone calls round, close all doors between them, you, and that open front door. Dogs can and will bolt through fear.

If you feel strongly about the danger of fireworks to animals, consider taking action through the RSPCA's #Bangoutoforder campaign. They are calling for tighter regulations of fireworks and considerations of others and encouraging us all to write to our MP.