The 5th of November is Guy Fawkes Night, also known as Bonfire Night, and has been celebrated with huge bonfires and extravagant firework displays for over 400 years. With the event fast approaching, many dog owners find themselves anxiously anticipating the occasion, and the weekend on which celebrations are held, because of the anxiety and stress brought on by the louds bangs and bright flashes.
Fireworks can be terrifying for our four-legged friends and upsetting for owners who find themselves having to comfort their dogs through the scary experience. This year, we’re providing our 6 useful tips to make the evening stress-free; there are lots of measures you can take to make these bright and noisy celebrations less frightening for your furry friends.
Ways you can minimise stress for your dog on bonfire night
Plan your dog-walks and activities
By getting your dog walked early, you can ensure they won't need to be outside for prolonged periods of time when the fireworks are being let off. In the evening, make sure your doors and windows are closed, and your dog is secure inside, unable to escape if they are frightened.
Close your curtains and blinds
Once it starts to get dark, close your curtains and blinds. This can help to muffle the sounds of the explosions, and limit the flashes your dog can see through the window too.
Give your dog a safe space
Create a quiet, safe place in the house where your dog can hide if they want. This can be their bed, a crate, or anywhere that the dog feels at ease whilst the fireworks are happening.
Don't discipline your dog for being afraid
If you chastise a dog that is already anxious and afraid, you risk making this behaviour worse over time. This will make comforting them when fireworks happen in the future more difficult.
Comfort your dog, or distract them with a game
If your dog is happy to do so, playing a game indoors can be the perfect distraction from the noise. Additionally, seeing you ignore the fireworks could help put your pet a little more at ease.
Play calming music for your dog
Dogs respond well to calming music. Use platforms such as YouTube and Spotify to find playlists that have been curated to feature calming music for dogs.
For severe cases of firework phobia, treatments and products are available
Talk to your vet if nothing is working to distract and comfort your dog. They may suggest remedies such as pheromone diffusers or seeking advice from a clinical animal behaviourist.