This time of year can bring anxiety to both people and their dogs. Fireworks seem to be everywhere—not just on Bonfire Night but the days and weekends surrounding it, along with New Year’s celebrations, weddings, and even unexpected bangs from rural crow scarers or urban car backfires. For dogs, especially those who are rescue or rehomed, this can all be a bit overwhelming. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help your dog through these extra stressful times.
#1. Consult Your Vet
If your dog has shown signs of anxiety in the past, it’s wise to speak with your vet well before fireworks season begins. They can suggest options to help, and in some cases, prescribe a sedative to lessen the impact of intense fear responses like shaking, pacing, or scratching. These treatments may not eliminate anxiety, but they can reduce the physical stress on your dog.
#2. Try Herbal Supplements for Calming
Certain herbal remedies can be effective for managing your dog’s anxiety. Here are a few to consider:
- Valerian Drops by Dorwest Herbs: These helped our senior dog feel much calmer during travel in her last months.
- Valerian and Skullcap Tablets by Dorwest: These tablets can be used daily for general anxiety and given in higher doses during stressful events like fireworks, grooming, or vet visits.
- Rescue® Pet by Bach Flower Remedies A safe, natural option that can also be helpful for dogs during anxiety-inducing times.
It’s essential to follow the dosing instructions for all herbal treatments so they can take effect when most needed.
#3. Prepare and Desensitise
Desensitising your dog to sounds can make a big difference. Playing soundtracks of fireworks or similar noises while they’re in a calm setting can help reduce anxiety when the real thing happens.
On the day of a known fireworks event:
- Set up a safe, cosy spot for your dog early in the day.
- Draw curtains and switch on some background noise like the TV or radio.
- Give any medication or supplements in advance.
- Take them out for a bathroom break before it gets dark, and feed them earlier than usual.
If your dog’s anxiety is severe, consider setting up a hazard-free, soft environment where they can feel secure without injuring themselves.
#4. Keep Their Stress Low with Daytime Activities
Consider activities that provide mental engagement and relaxation, such as:
- Snuffle or lick mats
- Chew toys like antlers
- A calming walk with plenty of sniffing time
Avoid unnecessary stressors on days when fireworks might go off, like grooming appointments or vet visits. By keeping their stress low, you can help them better handle the big bangs when they come.
#5. Stay Calm and Reassure Them
While it’s natural to want to comfort a nervous dog, it’s best to remain calm and act as if everything is normal. Reassure them quietly without overdoing it. Staying present can help them feel secure, as dogs are reassured by our calm energy.
#6. Try a Thundershirt or TTouch Body Wraps
- Thundershirts: These apply gentle pressure around your dog’s body, similar to swaddling, which can help calm them.
- Tellington TTouch Body Wraps – These activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms and grounds your dog. TTouch wraps can be tailored to different body parts, so you can experiment to see what your dog prefers.
It’s best to practice using these wraps gradually so your dog becomes comfortable with them before the main event.
#7. Understand Their Needs
Our old girl Lucy used to shake terribly until her hearing faded, and eventually, she found peace. It’s crucial to understand the level of anxiety your dog experiences and find the management method that best meets their needs. Preparation and care can make a world of difference in helping them feel safe.
Thank you for reading. Here’s to a peaceful fireworks season for you and your dog.
Namaste,
Lou xx