It’s a known fact that dogs and fireworks don’t mix. I share my top tips on how to keep your dog feeling as safe and calm as possible.
I love Autumn. The smell of woodsmoke billowing from chimneys, the scrunching of colourful leaves beneath your feet, the cold crisp mornings.
The thing I hate though, probably like most dog lovers up and down the land, is fireworks.
There is nothing more distressing than seeing my dogs shaking with fear, trembling uncontrollably and completely inconsolable.
Getting Your Dog Prepared for Fireworks Season
Being prepared is crucial in order that your dog has as stress-free time as possible over the coming weeks.
Over the years I have spent a fortune on plugins and herbal remedies that made little or no difference.
However, in recent years I’ve nailed it, so I thought that I would share my top tips.
Dogs and Fireworks – My Top Tips for Staying Calm
1. Keep curtains and windows shut and turn the TV up to dull the sound from outside.
2. Burn pet-friendly wax melts – they work an absolute treat. They really help to promote a sense of calm, and help you and your dog to relax.
3. Making sure your dog feels safe is also vital. Create a den for them, a puppy/ dog crate is ideal, or just a hiding place under the bed where they can escape.
4. Make sure they feel warm and cosy with a snuggly blanket. (These make the perfect Christmas present too!) Click here to buy.
5. If your dog likes toys, these are a great distraction from all the loud bangs and strange noises.
6. If you have a doggy drying coat, wrapping that around them tightly also helps a lot, and prevents them panicking so much.
7. Lastly, licking really helps to calm dogs. Filling a Kong toy (or similar) with Liver Paste or cheese spread is a great way to keep them occupied.
Top Tip: Pop the toy in the freezer for a while first and it keeps them entertained for even longer. Lickimats are a great option too.
I hope your furry friends have as stress-free time as possible this year. If you try any of my top tips, please let me know. I hope they help.
Woofs and Wags
Kate, Gertie and Winnie
xox
Some great advice 🙂 We had more fireworks than ever before and they were so loud! We went for a really long walk, snuggled up under a blanket and found a really loud action movie to watch – Bloodshot!
Hi Sarah and Dolly,
Ah thank you so much for taking the time to read our blog.
I can’t believe the difference in Pops this year – she’s a new dog since having Gertie. So much more confident with everything.
I hope Dolly wasn’t too distressed – I’m really hoping the worst of the fireworks are over now.
Woofs and Wags
Kate, Pops and Gerts xx