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Fireworks

Strategies for firework season and how to prepare

Preparation before the anticipated event.

Refuge

Prepare a hiding place/refuge for your dog to get away from the sounds of fireworks, ideally 2 weeks prior to the event, with plenty of blankets to dig and burrow in.

 

The refuge should be accessible 24/7, set up in a room central in the house with minimal windows and heavy curtains to darken the room.

 

Add an unwashed old item of clothing with your scent (like a woolly jumper) to increase the dog’s feeling of security and comfort with indirect presence.

 

It is advisable to start getting them used to the refuge 2-3 times daily with chews/food treats in the run-up, so the dog understands it is a positive, relaxing place.

Adaptil™ (Pheromone therapy). Install a plug-in Adaptil™ diffuser as close to the refuge as possible and leave running 24/7. Ensure this is used 1-2 weeks prior to the start of the event and for 2 weeks afterwards. Dog appeasing pheromone has a powerful effect to reduce sensitivity to sound and decreasing anxiety to enable better coping in the run-up to fireworks. Check the level, one refill should last approx. 4 weeks and should be used in an open space, without a surface above or other diffuser devices nearby.

Short-term use of medication. Some dogs may require the short-term use of medication to help them through the event. Ask the practice if you think your dog may need medication, this may require a consultation in some cases. All individuals will be affected differently and though some dogs may only show mild anxiety around sound sensitivity, others show a more fearful response and medication may be especially important in these cases.

Nutraceutical products. There are several available products (VetPro Stress & Anxiety™, Kalm Aid™) which can be effective at reducing anxiety, containing serotonin-precursor L-tryptophan.

Microchip. Ensure your dog’s microchip details are up to date!

Auditory blocking. Moderately loud but comfortable music with a good beat (Radio/TV) is useful to mask the external noise for dogs that tolerate music normally.

Evening walk/meal. On the night of the anticipated event, take your dog for a walk/toilet in plenty of time before darkness. An earlier meal of high carbohydrate (e.g. pasta/rice) may help them to be drowsy later on.

Management during the event.

Human interaction

Avoid punishing undesirable behaviour but equally resist the temptation to soothe the dog’s fear. This will give the impression there is something to worry about. Remain neutral, lead the dog to the refuge and encourage him/her to stay there. This helps prevent over-reliance for comfort and therefore panic in your absence.

 

Give positive attention and affection when the dog is relaxed and not frightened, use food treats/games as necessary though some dogs aren’t keen so don’t expect too much. It is vital to ignore the noises yourself, appear happy and unconcerned and encourage the use of the refuge. Reward relaxation and recovery.

 

Ignore the noises yourself and if your pet is only mildly fearful, you could try to engage your pet in some form of active game. Try to appear happy and unconcerned. It can help if you play a game with another pet in the household, because the frightened one may be tempted to join in.

Provisions. Leave some special chews (e.g. filled or frozen Kong™) or toys in the refuge for the dog to chew to help relieve tension, though some dogs may not be interested. Ensure access to food and water.

Safety. Always ensure the environment is safe and secure so the dog doesn’t bolt/escape with any sudden noise e.g. windows, doors and gates.

Long-term treatment – essential for dogs with sonophobia.

Behavioural therapy – de-sensitisation and counter-conditioning. Some dogs require a full behavioural assessment after fireworks season, alongside medication to create the emotional.

Jon Crosher BVSc MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon