It is very hard for dogs this time of year with the 5th of November celebrations. Dogs do not like fireworks. It is a fact that every year dogs and many other animals experience fear, uncertainty and are injured by fireworks. With more people going out to firework show dog are left alone to deal with their fear. Fireworks are being let off a few weeks before and after the fifth of November, and because of this it is very hard to know exactly when your dog might be subjected to a loud bang.

Most dog will show some response to fireworks, these can include

Hiding behind the sofa

Barking

Shaking

Following and looking around for you all the time

Panting

Drooling

Wining

Cowering in the corner

Urinating or poo in doors

Not wanting to go out

This guide will help your dog to get through the firework season.

Do:

All animals should be brought in doors durating the firework period.

Take your dog out for a walk before it gets dark

Try and stay with your dog during the majority of the firework season

Allow your dog to hide if they want to, and have a special area where they can feel safe.

Keep the curtain close and the TV or Radio fairly loud so they can’t hear the noise so much.

Make sure you ignore any fearful behaviour that your dog displays.

Make sure that your dog has some sort of identifcation on, just incase your dog gets out of the house or garden.

Play games with your dog, giving them something to do (but only if your dog wants to).

If your dog dose not want to eat its dinner don’t worry. If they are eating, feed them mid to late afternoon if you can. 

Don’t::

Don't take your dog for a walk after dark

Never punish your dog for being frighterned. This includes not shouting if they bark or accidently toilets in the house.

Don't fuss or comfort the dog when they are frighterned, if you do you are rewarding the anxiety behaviouur, making your do think it's ok to be scared, over time your dog's anxiety could get a lot worse.

Never ever take your dog to a fireworks display

If your dog suffers badly with anxiety durating the firework period please be a resposable owner and speak with your vet.

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