June 25, 2024 | By R. Lewis
Many animals find fireworks scary. Research shows at least 40% of dogs have noise-related phobias. This definitely includes fireworks, which trigger a stress response that affects your dog’s overall health. Depending how close you are, fireworks can also physically hurt your dog’s hearing as they ring in at 190 decibels. Owners will often see their pets struggling, either frozen with fear or, in the most dangerous circumstances: bolting out a door or charging fences. From flashes to booming sounds, the startling nature of fireworks trigger 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 dramatic fear and panic.
Before firework begin
Planning ahead can help dogs cope with the fireworks season. Before the fireworks season starts, provide your dog with a doggy safe haven. This should be a quiet area, so choose one of the quietest rooms in your home, a place where they feel in control. Don't interfere with your dog when they're in that area. Train your dog to associate the area with positive experiences such as leaving their favorite toys there, but not imposing yourself at any time. Use a variety of chew toys, such as stuffed Kongs and chews. Swap them regularly, putting them away when not in use so that your dog doesn't become bored with them. With time, dogs can learn that this place is safe and enjoyable. When fireworks go off, they may choose to go there because they know, in that place, they are safe. It's important that your dog has access to this doggy safe haven at all times, even when you're not at home.
You could also talk to your vet about pheromone diffusers. These disperse calming chemicals into the room and may be a good option for your dog. In some cases, your vet may even prescribe medication.
Micro-chip your dog in case they're startled and escape outside. Off The Chain can help with that!
Walk your dog during daylight hours to avoid times when fireworks are likely to be set off.
Ways to help your dog get through the experience
From things to give your dog as a distraction to remedies that help them relax, here are ways to make sure your dog feels comfortable and safe during active fireworks:
· Medications: Every expert we spoke to agreed: talking with a veterinarian about anti-anxiety medication is a good idea. A significant number of owners said medications such as those containing CBD helped their dogs with firework anxiety.
· Pheromones: Dog-appeasing pheromone mimics the pheromones produced by a mother dog, creating a sense of well-being in dogs. It’s available as a room diffuser, spray, or collar and can help your dog’s firework anxiety.
· Distraction with high-value treats: “Self-soothe” techniques involve helping the dog calm down through sniffing, chewing, or licking. Try using goodies they love and put them in puzzle toys to encourage your dog to focus on something other than the noise outside.
· Let your dog “run it out”: A tired, sleepy dog doesn’t have the energy to pace or pant through the house. On days of scheduled fireworks, take your dog to the park for some high-energy, enrichment activities. Or out for a jog. But make sure you’re back before the festivities start!
· Give your dog lots of comfort and attention: Old behavioral theories recommended avoiding snuggles. But it should be left up to your dog. If you have a pup looking for reassurance, there’s nothing wrong with quietly soothing them with some cuddles.
· Put on a pressure wrap or vest: Items such as the ThunderShirt or other calming wraps behave similarly to a “hug” machine, applying even pressure across the torso. Reviews show it may or may not work in the moment when your dog is panicking.
· Play white noise or music: The noise of fireworks prompts fear in dogs the most. If you can drown out those crashes and booms with a white noise machine or pleasing music, you can quickly reduce their stress levels.
· Allow your dog extra space or a hiding place: Many dogs look for somewhere out of sight and hearing of the fireworks.
· Pair your dog with a dog who isn’t afraid of fireworks: Modeling, where dogs learn from each other, can work in reverse, too. If your nervous dog sees an older or more dominant dog relaxing and remaining calm during the fireworks display, it can set a precedent.
· Stay calm yourself. Dogs sense even the tiniest changes, down to our body temperatures. If you feel nervous or edgy, your dog may also interpret fireworks as the problem. So take some deep breaths and remain calm.
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