With the approach of Guy Fawkes night and the inevitable nights of colourful firework displays all over the country, it’s important to consider your pet’s health and safety.
While fireworks, sparklers and bonfires are a great spectacle many people enjoy, the sounds can be extremely distressing for your pets. Fireworks can reach up to 150 decibels in sound, and as your dog has far more sensitive hearing than humans, it’s no wonder that for many dogs, fireworks are a frightening experience.
Not all dogs are concerned by fireworks, but there are a few key signs to look out for to identify whether your pet is suffering. These indicators include:
- Panting or drooling
- Trying to hide or escape from the noise
- Restlessness (not lying or sitting down for long)
- Shaking
- Messing themselves in the home
If you notice any of these signs of distress in your pet, it’s important that you don’t get upset or angry with them, and instead do everything you can to keep your dog comfortable and calm. We’ve listed a few steps you can take below to keep your pet safe on Fireworks Night.
1. Create a Safe Space
Prepare a den area for your dog with their bed, fresh water and their favourite toys. Better still, if your dog is crate trained then get this ready for Fireworks Night. In the week’s approaching, it may be a good idea to reward your dog when they spend time in the den so they view it as a safe retreat should they become distressed.
2. Keep Your Dog Inside
This should go without saying, but if your dog is distressed at the sound of fireworks, don’t let them outside where they’re even louder and brighter! Keep your pets safely inside where sounds will be muffled. This will also ensure your pet doesn’t go missing trying to escape the sounds in distress.
3. Stay Calm
If you are nervous and distressed about your pet’s mood, then your dog is most likely going to pick up on the tense atmosphere and get more upset. Stay calm and act normal, giving lots of praise for good, calm behaviour. It’s perfectly fine to cuddle and reassure your dog but don’t chase them – if your dog wants to hide under a table or be in a quiet spot, leave them be.
4. Provide Background Noise
It may be a good idea to drown out the sound of fireworks by playing music, the radio, or putting the TV on in your home. Your dog is far more used to these sounds and will feel calmer. It’s also a good idea to close the windows and curtains to block out the bright and sudden lights fireworks can cause.
5. Prepare Before Dark
It’s a safe bet to assume that firework displays are going to begin when it’s dark, so do your preparations while it’s still light. That means walking your dog, feeding them and settling down for the evening before any noises start. If you try to feed your pets after fireworks have started, you may find they are too anxious to eat.
Unfortunately, there may be some nights where you are caught off guard and hear fireworks starting before you’ve had a chance to prepare your dog for the night ahead. Just remember to keep calm and reward your dog for good behaviour. Never punish your dog for being scared or anxious – instead, be an understanding and stable presence in the home to comfort your dog if they need it.
