Top tips to help keep your dog calm during fireworks
There's expected to be a lot of displays on New Year's Eve
With the festive season upon us, it's expected that there will be a large number of displays in the coming days, especially on New Year's Eve, leading to dog owners being very worried for the welfare of their furry friends.
Of course, if you have a dog yourself, you'll be aware they may get very anxious and scared with the loud bangs and flashes going off, which can have a significant impact on their wellbeing.
The UK’s largest dog welfare charity Dogs Trust has now issued top tips to pet owners for New Year's Eve.
Signs that your dog might be fearful or stressed during fireworks:
1) Whining or barking: your dog may voice their distress through whining, whimpering, barking, growling or crying.
2) Clinginess: they may seek comfort by jumping up, staying close, or by seeking attention.
3) Excessive panting or drooling: anxiety can lead to increased panting, drooling or lip-licking.
4) Holding their tail down between their legs.
5) Hiding: they might try to find a safe or secluded spot to hide, like under furniture or in a closet.
6) Trying to escape: in extreme cases, your dog may attempt to escape to get away from the noise.
7) Trembling or shaking: your dog may visibly shake or tremble when fireworks are going off.
8) Pacing or restlessness: they may become agitated and constantly move around.
9) Loss of appetite: fear can cause a loss of interest in food, so they may not want to eat.
10) Dilated pupils: your dog’s eyes may appear wider than usual due to stress.
Top tips to help keep your dog calm during fireworks:
Put on our special playlist to calm your dog
Available on the Rayo app, the playlist offers feel-good, relaxing music to help owners stay calm and create a soothing atmosphere. The background noise can also help mask the sound of fireworks, just remember to play at a comfortable volume. Research shows that music can help mask the sound of fireworks and have a positive impact on owners, helping to create a relaxed environment for our furry friends, just remember to play at a comfortable volume.
Don't leave your dog alone
Plan a cosy night in with your dog, they could panic if left alone. Having you or someone they know and trust for company will help them relax.
Walk your dog before dark
Make sure your dog is well-exercised and has had a toilet break before the fireworks begin and never force your dog to go outside during the fireworks.
Feed your dog before the fireworks begin
They may become unsettled and not want to eat during the fireworks.
Give your dog any prescribed medication before fireworks start
Make sure you give your pooch their prescribed medication early on, they may not take it when the fireworks start.
Make sure your house and garden are secure
Close all windows and doors during the fireworks as fear may make your dog try to escape. Make sure they're always wearing a collar with a tag that has up-to-date contact details on it, and that their microchip details are also up-to-date in case they were to escape.
Provide a safe hiding place - Doggy Den
Make sure your dog has somewhere safe in their favourite room. Turn your dog's favourite spot into their designated safe space. You could add a comfy bed or blankets to their favourite nook, perhaps by the side of the sofa or under a certain table, to make it a safe and snug haven for them. Make a cosy den for them and build up positive associations with the space, by offering your dog things they enjoy in there, like long-lasting chews, puzzle feeders and their favourite toys.. Do this well in advance of fireworks, so they become familiar with it being a safe place.
Try to settle your dog before the fireworks start
If your dog is in familiar safe surroundings it will help them cope with the noise.
Close your curtains and blinds
Flashing lights caused by fireworks can also make your dog anxious, shutting your curtains and having lights on in your home will help.
Avoid telling them off for toilet accidents
If your dog makes a mess by accident, avoid telling them off as this might make them feel more scared.
Stay calm and relaxed yourself
Although it may be hard, try to stay calm and relaxed yourself. Your dog will pick up on how you're feeling, so do your best to relax.
Don't ignore them
If they seek reassurance, calmly give them attention and comfort. Research shows that ignoring them won't help.
Let them hide in a safe place
If your dog wants to hide, let them stay where they feel safe.
Offer your dog games and treats
If your dog doesn't seem worried by fireworks, it's best to keep them occupied with their favourite items or activities so they don't start to get anxious. You could play games or offer them treats to keep their attention away from the noises outside.
Find out more from Dogs Trust right here.
When should I see a vet?
1) If your dog shows signs of fear in response to fireworks or loud noises, or has done in the past, speak to your vet as soon as possible. It’s important to let your vet know so they can check there are no related medical problems.
2) They can also refer you to a behaviourist and give advice on additional treatments like medication.
3) If your vet recommends medication for your dog, this can be useful for noise fear. It can help dogs cope during fireworks and may reduce their fear increasing each time.
Playlist to help keep your pets calm
Research shows that staying calm and distracting a dog with music can help improve behaviour during fireworks. Dogs Trust has helped us create a feel-good playlist to create a calming atmosphere, especially during fireworks. Stay home, play it at a comfortable volume, and create a cosy space for your dog.
The themed playlist is available on the Rayo app.
You can download the Rayo app below: