New Year’s is a time to celebrate, but it can also be a stressful time for dogs. Dogs have been known to experience noise phobias from fireworks, and they can cause extreme distress even during normal fireworks season.
If your dog suffers from fear or anxiety around loud noises such as thunderstorms or fireworks, then you already know how he reacts when he hears them go off nearby. Read on as a local vet offers up some tips on how to calm Fido’s nerves during fireworks.
Create a Safe Space
If your dog doesn’t have a safe space to retreat to, create one. Find a dark, quiet space. Make sure there is a comfortable bed for them to lay on or even just some blankets and pillows so they have somewhere soft to rest their heads when they feel overwhelmed.
Try to keep your dog away from the windows if you can, especially if they are likely to hear fireworks nearby. If you can’t pry them away from the window, consider covering it up with blankets or moving Fido to another room that faces away from the fireworks display.
Keep Them Inside
Keep them inside during peak fireworks times and be sure to close the windows. Also, don’t leave your dog outside in the yard, or in a car.
Exercise Them Early in the Day
Exercise your pet early on in the day. If you have time, make it a point to exercise him before the fireworks start. Pets will be more relaxed if they’re tired from a good workout.
Play White Noise or Music
White noise is a constant sound that blocks out other noises, so it can be a good way to help calm your dog down. Radio static and fan humming are both examples of white noise. Or, you can try playing music that your dog likes while fireworks are going off.
Make Sure Fido’s Wearing ID Tags
This is the most important step in keeping your dog safe during fireworks. ID tags include your phone number, which can be a life-saving resource should someone find Fido wandering around after the fireworks are over.
Talk to Your Vet
They can recommend various supplements and medications that may help calm your dog down during fireworks, as well as behavioral training (if you’re open to that).
If you have more questions or need to schedule a consultation with one of our vets, please don’t hesitate to call us anytime!