Fireworks & Dogs
Does your dog suffer from fear of noises from the firework celebration? Here are a few tips to keep Fido feeling better and you feeling less worried.
#1 Do not nurture your dog's fear. The more you worry and feel bad, and try to share affection to calm them the more worried they will become as they sense in you something is wrong.
#2 Turn on some music to help muffle the sound. Close the curtains or find a darker room that is more insulated from outside.
#3 Exercise your dog during the day when there are no fireworks going off. Really get them tuckered out. This will help you as they will not have as much energy to panic.
#4 Try putting a leash on them inside the house and attaching it to your hip when the fireworks go off. This will prevent them from pacing, being destructive and working themselves up. Remember to stay calm and assertive and give your dog firm directions to stay steadfast and get through it together. You can give them some extra thick blankets or a bed to help promote relaxation.
#5 Pick up some calming supplements. I recommend Bach's Rescue Remedy or Richard's Organics Pet Calm. They both come in a dropper bottle and are absorbed quickly through the tongue. If your dog's panic is severe, you may want to prep by talking to your vet about giving your dog some sedatives.
#6 If you have to leave your dog, I suggest leaving them in a crate or bathroom insulated from the outside
#7 Make sure they have up to date tags on their collar including your address and phone number. Microchip ID is also very helpful in the event that your dog panics and gets lost. Remember fear can cause your dog to do abnormal things like bolt out the door when it's opened, leap over a fence, or break through a screen or barrier.
#8 It may be wise to keep a first aid kit for your dog in the event that they may accidentally injure themselves from acting out of fear.
#9 Try to occupy your dog with things they enjoy- playing with a toy, getting special treats while they focus on you, licky mats, or a special chew.
#10 The best plan is one that is proactive instead of reactive. If your dog has sensitivity to loud noises practice the rest of the year by working with them with audio downloads or YouTube videos that have fireworks, thunderstorms and other loud noises. You can even get a friend to help you by having them bang on a pan or make loud noises while you work with your dog in another room with treats or a special toy they really have fun with. If you find yourself overwhelmed or stuck, ask for help! Reach out to me by going to https://www.followmyleadfl.com/contact
