It’s almost that time of year again, although it seems that it doesn’t need to be a specific time to hear those crashes and bangs in the sky.
Yes, we’re talking about fireworks.
While it’s easy to think fireworks are great fun, they can be very distressing to dogs. The loud noises that seem to come out of nowhere and the flashing lights can cause your dog’s stress levels to rise without warning. After all, your dog doesn’t know that it’s Bonfire Night, someone’s wedding, or New Year’s Eve. They don’t understand what is going on around them and that can be very upsetting for them.
The good news is there are some tips you can use to help calm your dog down during these times.
Plan Ahead
We know that fireworks happen at night, so in that case plan ahead and feed and walk your dog beforehand. While it’s still light, give them their food and take them out for a walk. That’ll tire your pet out and let them do their business before the fireworks start.
The noise will probably still bother them but if they don’t need to go outside and see the flashing lights too, they will be less stressed.
Try Some Classical Music
Classical music is pretty calming if you find the right song! There is something about the structure, tones, and vibrations in this type of music that is ideal for reducing anxiety.
Loud firework noises can be masked by classical music at the right volume. Make sure you don’t have it too loud, as that could stress your dog out too. But once you find the happy medium, it will calm your dog down and mask the noises, therefore allowing them to be much calmer throughout the evening.
Let Your Dog Roam Indoors
It’s not the best idea to confine your dog to one particular spot when there’s something going on that could distress them. For instance, putting your dog into their cage could cause them to become even more anxious if they’re hearing loud noises. They may also injure themselves in their rush to get out.
Instead, let them roam inside the house as much as you can and make sure you keep the curtains closed to reduce the impact of flashing lights.
Distract Your Pet
Keeping your pet’s mind occupied is the best way to distract them from noises and flashing lights. Treat your pet to a long-lasting chew which will keep them occupied during the evening. We have lots of delicious treats that will certainly keep your pet’s mind off the fireworks!
From Lickimat to delicious doggy peanut butter, your dog will probably not even notice it’s Bonfire Night! Choose from our deer antlers, olivewood chews, and many other options! These are great choices to calm your furry friend during stressful times, without resorting to medication.
Try Our Doggy Hemp Oil
No, hemp oil isn’t only for humans!
Our Doggy hemp oil is a fast-acting and very calming product that can calm down nervous and anxious dogs in the short-term.
All of our dog supplements are safe and effective. They’re fully tested in a laboratory, vet-approved, and organic-certified. All ingredients are 100% natural and ensure a relaxing and calming experience for your dog.
All you need to do is place the hemp oil on your dog’s food or Lickimat and they’re good to go. For maximum effect, we recommend starting one week before Bonfire Night, so you can increase the dosage if you need to.
Don’t Leave Your Dog Alone
If at all possible, make sure someone stays at home with your dog and that you don’t all head out to watch the fireworks and leave them alone. They’ll only become even more stressed and because they’re alone, they’ll have no one to calm them down.
Also, if you have children in the house, encourage them to go and watch the fireworks from a bedroom window with the door closed, rather than opening and closing the curtains in all rooms.
Bonfire Night doesn’t have to be a stress for everyone, including your dog. With these easy-to-follow tips, you’ll have a calm night and your dog won’t be distressed from all the banging and flashing going on around them.
