How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Feeling Safe During Firework Season

Fireworks are great fun and beautiful for us humans to experience, but we can’t always say the same for our furry friends. The loud bangs can cause animals to become scared and naturally go into the ‘fight or flight’ response, which can be very disorientating and distressing.

Taking your dogs for walks during daylight is always advised. With the evenings getting darker earlier, fireworks can be let off as early as 4pm, and not just on Guy Fawkes night either. Long walks and activities will help tire them out, to make them more likely to sleep through the disturbances.

Draw the curtains and close the windows to reduce the noise and block out the lights. Creating a special ‘hiding’ place works well too, a doggy den filled with their favourite toys and bedding can be extremely effective.

We believe you can never give your dog too many cuddles, especially on nights like these, so hunker down and enjoy spending some quality time together. Cuddles and calm praise will give reassurance to your furry friend and help them feel at ease.

Put the radio on or a familiar TV show to create even more of a safe space, this should help distract from the noises outside and bring a feeling of comfort.

Keep your dog company. Leaving them home alone can cause their anxieties to worsen. If you are unable to be at home, try to get a pet sitter or a friend to keep them company.

By following the above steps, we hope your dog will feel comforted and safe.