What can I do to help my dog with firework anxiety?

What can I do to help my dog with firework anxiety?

I’m sure you've started to dread this time of year where firework season is starting and you have a dog with anxiety. We have put a list together to help you settle your dog the best you can and try to reduce their stress. 

Tips to help - 

1. Herbal calming supplement, Spot on or plug ins - It can be a good idea to give your dog either a supplement, spot on or use plug ins a couple of weeks before to help reduce their nervousness. If you start them a few weeks before they can be more effective. 

2. Make a den - It is best to make a den or safe space for your dog. If they use a crate it is good to cover the top with blankets, put a cuddle toy in, provide comfort and warmth. The den is best to be in their favourite spot and somewhere that they feel safe, is sound proof and warm. 

3. Playing music - It is a good idea to play music whilst the fireworks are loud to help distract them from the loud bangs. The music can be played the weeks before to make them familiar with it. 

4. Mental enrichment toys - Using LickiMat or toys are a great distraction plus it is calming for your dog. As your dog licks at the treats it helps to release endorphins which helps to calm them down. Using distractions is the best tool to help. 

5. Providing hugs and comfort - Giving your dog a cuddle and allowing them to lay next to you provides them with a lot of comfort. It is best not to leave them as you are their safe space and it can increase anxiety if you aren't there. 

6. Closing curtains & Windows - Making sure noise and flashes aren't seen or heard by your dog is vital in keeping them calm. This also prevents them from looking outside. 

7. Making your house secure - Sometimes when dogs get frightened they can run as they become spooked, it is best to lock doors and make sure when opening the outside doors that they aren't near. 

8. Walking your dog earlier - It is best to walk your dog earlier in the day before fireworks start as they can be startled and come free from the lead. Their first instinct is to run and hide.

How do I know my dog is scared of fireworks?

Unfortunately dogs with anxiety can have negative symptoms that are physical. This can make us nervous and panic as we don't like seeing our dog distressed, however you need to try and stay calm as this can have more of a negative effect on your dog. 

The signs of anxiety are - 

• Shaking - When your dog shakes uncontrollably this can be a sign that they are scared. The shaking helps to regulate their emotions, it releases endorphins and prepares their bodies to react if needed. 

• Drooling - Excessive drooling is when their nervous system is in overdrive and they are trying to regulate. 

• Lip smacking - Dogs do this when they are trying to self soothe, you should allow your dog to do this as they are trying to calm down. 

• Body language - Ears may pull back, tail may be tucked between their legs and the whites of their eyes may show. These are all indicators that they are anxious and scared.

• Changes to their appetite and drinking - Dogs may increase or decrease the amount they drink or eat when they are under anxiety. Food and drink should still be offered.

• Scratching, digging, howling and urinating - These can all start if they are left alone when they are scared creating them to have separation anxiety. 

• Pacing - Your dog may pace around the house as they are unsettled and don't feel like they have a safe place. 

• Trying to escape or Hide - In some cases dogs will try to hide under things or run away as they want to be away from the noises. 

If you are concerned with how your dog will cope and you feel that they need more intervention to help them then it is best to consult your vet. If your dog has an intense fear it is best to seek professional help to desensitise them over a long period of time to increase their quality of life and decrease their anxiety. 

Products that we would recommend to keep your dog occupied during fireworks - 

• KONG Classic - These are great for stuffing with your dogs favourite treats. Freezing it can prolong the time it takes them to get all the treats out. 

• KONG Wobbler - This is an interactive toy where you place small dried treats inside and your dog has to work out the best way to get them out. This provides mental stimulation and keeps them occupied. 

• KONG Wubba - These are squeaky durable toys that are great for tugging with your dog, by playing with your dog it provides them with a sense of safety and comfort. 

• LickiMat UFO - This LickiMat is a great one to make it difficult for your dog to get out the pate or spreaded treats. Again you can freeze it to make it longer lasting. 

• Pizzles - Our pizzles are a longer lasting very popular treat to help keep your dog occupied and chewing, hopefully providing a distraction for them. 

• Buffalo Ears - These are a great treat as they are long lasting and can be stuffed and frozen to make a tasty treat and provide them with mental stimulation. 

All of these products will help to calm your dog as they all provide a form of mental stimulation and as they lick it helps to release endorphins to calm them down. 

If you need anymore help or support, please contact us on 0113 328 1554 or pop us an email to customerservices@propernatural.co.uk

Love From Olivia x