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Deni D.

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Founder & CEO

Fireworks can be a source of fear and anxiety for many dogs, causing them distress and discomfort during celebratory events or holidays. As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to take proactive steps to help your dog feel safe and secure during fireworks displays.

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Our Top 10 Tips for easing firework fear

Create a Safe Space: Set up a quiet and comfortable area in your home where your dog can retreat during fireworks displays. Choose a room or area away from windows and doors. Provide your dog with familiar bedding, toys, and comforting items to help them feel secure.

Sound Masking: Play calming music or white noise in the background to mask the sound of fireworks and provide a soothing environment for your dog. Calming music or nature sounds can help drown out loud noises and create a more relaxed atmosphere.

Desensitisation Training: Gradually expose your dog to the sound of fireworks in a positive environment to help them become accustomed to the noise. Use recordings of fireworks at a low volume and gradually increase the volume while pairing it with positive experiences, such as treats.

Behaviour Modification: Consider consulting with a professional dog trainer or behaviourist to develop a behaviour modification plan to help your dog cope with fireworks fear. Techniques such as counter-conditioning can be effective in reducing your dog's anxiety and fear response.

Stay Calm and Reassuring: Dogs can pick up on their owner's emotions, so it's essential to remain calm and reassuring during fireworks displays. Avoid reacting to loud noises or displaying anxious behaviour yourself, as this can reinforce your dog's fear response.

Use Calming Products: Consider using calming products or supplements designed to help dogs relax during stressful situations. Products such as pheromone diffusers, anxiety vests, or natural supplements may help alleviate your dog's anxiety and promote relaxation.

Exercise and Distraction: Engage your dog in physical exercise and mental stimulation earlier in the day to help tire them out and reduce anxiety during fireworks displays. Offer interactive toys or puzzle feeders to keep your dog mentally engaged and distracted from the noise outside.

Avoid Leaving Your Dog Alone: If possible, avoid leaving your dog alone during fireworks displays, as this can increase their anxiety and stress levels. Stay with your dog and provide comfort and reassurance during the event to help them feel safe and secure.

Consult Your Vet: If your dog experiences severe anxiety or fear during fireworks displays, consult with your veterinarian for guidance and support. Your vet may recommend medications or other interventions to help manage your dog's anxiety during fireworks season.

Plan Ahead: Be proactive in planning for fireworks events by researching local displays and scheduling walks and bathroom breaks earlier in the day before fireworks begin. Prepare your home with safety measures such as closing windows and curtains to minimise noise and visual stimuli.

From the experts: Consider White Noise Machines: Use white noise machines to create a consistent and soothing background sound that can help mask the sudden and loud noises of fireworks. This can provide additional comfort to your dog by reducing the intensity of the firework sounds and helping to keep them calm.

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