Although fireworks may be a great way to boost jubilance and excitement during your momentous occasions, they can be terrifying for your beloved dogs. Even if you are not taking them outside during celebrations, the noise can overwhelm the dogs, even when they are staying inside. This is why it is important to help them during the fireworks.
Dogs afraid of fireworks will hide, tremble, run or whine in response to the noise. However, you can follow these 7 highly effective tips to reduce dog fireworks anxiety.
Use Sound Training to Calm Dogs During Fireworks
Before your celebratory events, you can help your dogs cope with fireworks by creating training sessions. Start by playing a fireworks sound effect (preferably from YouTube) at a very low level for a short time. Each time they remain calm, encourage this behaviour by feeding them some delicious dog treats.
Repeat this process with the sound at a low level, until the dog looks to you expectantly when it begins. You can gradually increase the sound till your dog starts to associate the noises with treats and praise for the calm behaviour.
Consider Using a Dog Anxiety Vest
Just like how swaddling helps in calming infants, cosy clothing that puts gentle pressure on your dog’s torso can reduce fireworks anxiety in dogs. This is why you should consider buying a dog anxiety vest, which keeps your dogs relaxed. These vests mimic what the mother dog does to its litter, which is applying constant pressure on them. Also, studies have shown that 79% of dog owners were satisfied with dog anxiety vests, as it helps reduce stress in dogs.
Plan a Pre-Fireworks Workout
Going on a hike with your dog or playing an intense game of fetch will wear them out before the fireworks begin. A dog that is physically and mentally tired is less likely to react to the fireworks. So indulge in rigorous playing sessions before your celebratory events to make your dogs relax and snooze peacefully.
Set Meals and Bathroom Breaks in Advance
It is important to schedule your dog’s meal and potty breaks well in advance before night, as most fireworks start after the evening. Also, it is hard to imagine the plight of a dog who needs a potty break but is too scared to step out due to the fireworks. So give your dog enough time to finish his meals, digest, and potty before the noise starts, so that he is not forced to hold it during the already chaotic night.
The reason why dogs are scared of fireworks is that they perceive the unpredictable booming sounds as an impending threat, and makes them feel more vulnerable. You can drown out the sound of the fireworks by keeping your windows closed and turning up the TV or radio volume.
Appliances like an air conditioner, hair dryer, fan or white noise generator can also help your dog if they are not fearful of these. You may also consider buying noise-blocking ear muffs for the dogs, which also shut out noise effectively.
Don’t ignore your dog when it is really frightened. Sit close to them, pat them gently and offer quiet words of reassurance to reduce their fear. Doing this will help your dog understand that you are his buddy and he can always lean on you when he is scared.
Calming supplements play a huge role in supporting your dogs during celebratory fireworks. For instance, you can buy Calm Pet Anti-Anxiety Tablets, which reduce anxiety and stress in dogs. It soothes nervous behaviour and promotes a sense of peace in the dogs. However, consult your veterinarian first before you administer the supplements to dogs.
On a Final Note,
Dog owners should remember that fireworks anxiety in dogs is a visceral response, and it will take a certain amount of time to make them calm. Have patience while implementing these steps and reward them with treats and praises, when they listen to your commands.
