Pets & Fireworks

Firework season is already in full swing and whilst it can be enjoyable for most, our pets can find this time of year incredibly stressful. It's important to recognise if your dog is struggling with the bright lights and loud noises. Thankfully, there are ways you can help your pooch feel safe during this time of year and help create a safe space for them.

Signs and Symptoms of Stress

Some signs are less obvious than others when your dog is stressed and each dog will show their anxiety in different ways, it's important you get to know your own dogs body language to understand how they're feeling and how you can help them. The most common signs of stress are:

• Hiding: They may try to find a safe spot to hide from the noises outside, this could be a bedroom, under furniture, in the closet etc.
• Pacing and/or restlessness: They will find it hard to stop and relax and will pace around the house. The constant movement is an indicator of stress.
• Excessive panting/drooling/lip licking: These are all common indicators your dog is restless and stressed.
• Whining / Barking: Dogs can become more vocal when they're unhappy.
• Loss of Appetite: A lack of appetite and/or refusing to eat is a very common stress indicator.
• Trembling: Much like humans, dogs can shake when they're stressed and frightened. 

What you can do to help

• Take your dogs on earlier walks in afternoon before it gets dark. A fulfilling, mentally enriching walk can help to tire them out and put them in a relaxed state of mind.
• Create a safe space for them. Finding an area in your home that's sheltered from the windows and doors can help keep the lights and noise out. Filling this area with soft blankets, favourite toys and other items your dog loves can help them feel safe. Having an item of clothing that smells strongly of you can be very comforting for them.
• Keep windows, doors and curtains closed. Along with keeping the noise down and hiding the flashing lights, keeping your dog inside will diminish any risk of them escaping out of fright.
• Ignore the fireworks yourself. Sometimes dogs can feed off our reactions, so us keeping calm when the fireworks start can help your dog see that they're not to be feared. Try and engage in play with your dog if they feel up to it!
• Play relaxing music. Studies have shown that playing classical music can help dogs relax. Classic FM have a specific radio channel to help pets during firework season, this can be found online at Classic FM's Pet Classics.
• Have calming activities ready. If your dog's appetite is normal, licking and chewing is a very relaxing activity for them. Items such a licky-mats and puzzle feeders can help keep your dog occupied, along with something safe for them to chew can also keep them regulated. Did you know turkey contains the amino acid, Tryptophan? This is widely known to produce feelings of calm and restfulness. 
• Be there for them. Sometimes the simplest things can be the most effective, being there for you dog and offering comfort and reassurance can often have the best affect.