⚠️ Preparation is key to helping to reduce the impact of loud and bright noises such as fireworks
There are various videos available on YouTube to help and also Dogs Trust have their own version that is also free to use
Begin on the lowest volume. Give your dog a positive experience such as enjoying their raw food in an enrichment toy or on a lick mat.
Ensure they have access to a safe space such as a crate with blankets in, and a cover over it. Every week increase the sound level by 1 but closely monitor your dog for signs of stress and stop if they show any of these signs
When creating a safe space for your dog, position it somewhere you will all be as being around their family helps a dog to feel safe. Add cosy blankets and a safe toy they can have.
Make this room brightly lit during intense fireworks episodes to contrast the dark cosy den for your dog. This will help to block out the flashes of light from outside
Be prepared with a First Aid kit as dogs are more prone to illness or injury when fear sets in as the fight, flight or freeze response sets in, a great option is shown on our First Aid for Dogs blog
Although bonfire night is November 05th it is common for fireworks to be set off for 2-3 months so prepare as early in the year to ensure you are ready
Turn up your TV or even opt for tuning in to a radio station as several now often calming music for dogs. Relax my dog on some platforms is another option.
Pet Remedy is readily available and may help - they even offer a party season pack available here
Consider herbal support such as River & Wren Botanical Calming Blend, Dorwest Skullcap & Valerian or Valerian Compound, or Nutracalm (from a vet).
Some raw suppliers may have CBD Oil or doggyjuana (catnip) available to help.
Hempine offers a herbal CBD product - dose and advice is available from Jo as per their website
After the event, consider using a product to help aid recover such as Prodog Raw Revive
⚠️ Not every product will work for every dog. It can vary dog to dog and be a case of trial and error to find what works best for your dog.
Anxiety
⁉️ Dogs can become anxious for all manner of reasons
Anxiety can be demonstrated in many ways too, for example, drooling, excessive panting or licking, pacing, whining and even barking
⁉️ Vets can prescribe medications to help, however there are other options too that may help instead. If your dog takes any medications or herbal supplements always check with a vet before adding a new herb or prescription to ensure it is safe to do so.
Walking a dog, and allowing them time to settle before you leave them can help.
Turning the TV or radio on provides some company. There are many dog TV channels of YouTube and many find radio 2 or classic FM are calming.
Giving your dog a safe space, especially in a busy home, such as a covered crate is ideal. This can become a haven for your dog. Always remove collars before a dog goes inside a crate and ensure a positive training of crate usage for your dog is done as it is a safe haven, not a punishment.
Proflax calm & collected can be used however it should be ideally given as the only herb fed in that meal.
Dorwest Skullcap & Valerian or Valerian Compound. If using for fireworks, it's best to begin dosing about 2 months before the event and throughout into January.
Chamomile tea, once cooled, is naturally soothing and calming. Feed 2 teaspoons for smaller breeds up to 2 tablespoons for giant breeds (NOTE: Avoid in pregnant & diabetic dogs and those with low blood pressure.)
Support wraps can be used however caution should be used as they can become snagged on furniture