Many dogs panic at the sound of fireworks. Keeping your pet safe is a priority!
When there is an event in your area that will involve fireworks, do not walk your dog in the neighborhood or put him outside in the yard. A panicked dog will sometimes jump a fence or escape when he wouldn’t normally do so.
You can also help reduce your dog’s fear of fireworks by planning ahead and creating a safe space indoors.
What is fireworks phobia?
Dogs have an exceptional sense of hearing, so the sound of fireworks can be terrifying for them. Whether you celebrate the 4th of July in the U.S. or November 5th in Britain, any occasion that calls for booming fireworks can scare or even traumatize your dog. The good news is that there are many ways you can help your dog feel safe during any occasion that calls for fireworks. Not all methods will work for every dog, so you may have to tailor your approach to accommodate your dog’s individual needs.
How can I help my dog feel safe?
If you know there will be a celebration in your area, start planning now. That way, you won’t be scrambling at the last minute and your dog has a much better chance of handling the event.
- Before the fireworks begin or after they are over, take your dog out to the backyard on a leash to relieve himself. Stay with him at all times while outside.
- Before the fireworks begin, make sure all windows are closed to stifle the loud sounds. Also, close the curtains, pull down the blinds, and turn on lights or the television to mask the flashes of fireworks.
- Create a comfortable safe space or “bolt hole” for him to escape to. This might be a crate, a bathroom, or even a closet that makes him feel safe. Introduce him to the space ahead of time, and make it comfortable and inviting. It’s important to leave the door open so he is free to come and go when he needs, because confinement can cause panic.
- Give regular daily exercise and train at least once a week, as these are linked to reduced fearfulness. On the actual day of fireworks, activities should be done indoors.
- Use the Canine Noise Phobia Series to desensitize your dog to the noise of fireworks.
- If your dog comes to you for safety, comfort him. Some people think that if you comfort a nervous or fearful dog, you will reinforce his fear, but the opposite is actually true. A calming touch or just holding your dog close will help to make him feel safe.
My dog needs more help
- If your dog is hiding in an area of your home where he is comfortable, like under your bed or in a bathtub, do not pull him out. Let him go to where he feels safe and secure.
- Keeping yourself feeling calm and relaxed will help him feel safe.
- For some dogs, TV programs may provide helpful distracting sounds. Others benefit from a white noise machine, fan, or air conditioner, but try these at a quiet time to make sure that the whirring of these machines don’t scare your dog. If they do, don’t use them. Play calming music from the Canine Noise Phobia Series as another calming, noise-masking option for your dog.
- Try other methods to calm your dog, such as using synthetic pheromones (sometimes called “Dog Appeasing Pheromones” or “DAP”) that mimic those given off by a lactating canine mother. These products are available in the form of a collar, room diffuser, or spray.
- Your dog may feel more confident hiding under a heavy blanket or while wearing a close fitting wrap. Consider your dog’s body language when you try this. If he seems bothered by this, don’t use it.
- If your dog is still stressed despite these measures, ask your veterinarian about temporary calming medication and use it according to the directions. Even with medication, continue to follow the above suggestions so your dog has as much support as possible.
