Fireworks can be terrifying for pets. They're sudden and loud, unpredictable and make the ground shake.
If your dog hates fireworks they might:
- hide or cower
- attempt to escape
- shake or tremble
- urinate or defecate
- drool excessively
- refuse treats
- bark, howl or whine
Find out more about what your dog is trying to say with their body language here: http://www.charlessturt.sa.gov.au/DogSpeakQuiz
Here are some tips that might help your dog during fireworks:
- Ensure your dog’s ID is up to date. Registered and microchipped dogs, with ID on collars, are easier to reunite with their owners.
- Keep your dog company or ask friends or family they trust to look after them.
- Double check gates and doors are secure, there’s no gaps in the fence, and there’s nothing against the fence (like bins or pot plants) the dog can use to escape.
- Avoid tying your dog up or using a crate to control them – they may injure themselves in a panic.
- Shut blinds or windows to reduce noise and the sight of fireworks.
- An additional walk or training game late in the day will help tire them out and make them calmer.
- They may want to hide to feel safe. This can be in weird locations like under the bed, under the couch, in the laundry, in a cupboard, or they might try to burrow in with you. Let them find comfort with you if you can.
- Turn the TV up or play music (especially classical music) to help muffle the sound.
- Play games or use long lasting, high-value treats like stuffed Kongs, chews or bones as a distraction.
- Speak to your vet about short-term medication as an option.
- Leave your dog at home if you’re celebrating near fireworks. The closer they are, the more frightening it can be!
- Invest in training. You can find a list of qualified, experienced trainers at RSPCA SA.
Most importantly: comfort them. ‘Reinforcing fear’ is a myth – you can’t make an emotion worse by being compassionate. None of us choose to be scared – if your dog is scared, they need your patience and support! Be there for them.