The Big Bang - Preparing Your Dog For Bonfire Night
November can be a stressful month for dogs.
Although the celebration of bonfire night only lasts for a short period, fireworks can usually be heard throughout the month.
With just over a week to go before the big night, many owners might be wondering what they can do to minimize the stress caused to their dogs.
For the well prepared, desensitization is known to work well.
CDs are available that simulate the random unpredictable bangs of fireworks.
Ideally you should begin exposing your dog to these sounds weeks before the fireworks start, but many owners have experienced success over shorter period.
The more often your dog hears these sounds the more he will eventually become comfortable with them.
Distraction can be another useful tool particularly when used in conjunction with a desensitization programme.
Take the opportunity to play with your dog, give him his favorite toy and chew or try teaching or training him.
The idea is that your dog will be focused on something else while the background noise is going on.
Ensure your dog has been out for a good walk and has been to the toilet long before the fireworks start, preferably while it is still daylight.
Feed your dog a nutrient rich food with ample fiber and carbohydrate so that his stomach is full over the evening.
Create a safe, comfortable and quiet den area for your dog.
Ideally, this should be in a place which is furthest from the fireworks, and where he is used to resting.
The room should be able to be darkened to hide the firework flashes.
Ensure that he has some toys to play with and that you have something to keep yourself occupied.
Importantly, check your environment, making sure that it is safe and secure and that your dog cannot escape and bolt with fear.
Put the TV or some music on, preferably something with loud low tones as this will act as a distraction and help drown out the noise outside.
In extreme cases your vet might recommend sedative drugs for your dog.
If this is the case make sure they are given well before the start of the fireworks ensure that he does not start to panic.
Throughout this period it is important that you do not cater to your dog's fear.
Do not comfort him or reward him for his behavior, as he will consider that his fear is justified and this could lead to increased anxiety.
Instead you should act as normal showing that there is nothing to be afraid of.
Although the celebration of bonfire night only lasts for a short period, fireworks can usually be heard throughout the month.
With just over a week to go before the big night, many owners might be wondering what they can do to minimize the stress caused to their dogs.
For the well prepared, desensitization is known to work well.
CDs are available that simulate the random unpredictable bangs of fireworks.
Ideally you should begin exposing your dog to these sounds weeks before the fireworks start, but many owners have experienced success over shorter period.
The more often your dog hears these sounds the more he will eventually become comfortable with them.
Distraction can be another useful tool particularly when used in conjunction with a desensitization programme.
Take the opportunity to play with your dog, give him his favorite toy and chew or try teaching or training him.
The idea is that your dog will be focused on something else while the background noise is going on.
Ensure your dog has been out for a good walk and has been to the toilet long before the fireworks start, preferably while it is still daylight.
Feed your dog a nutrient rich food with ample fiber and carbohydrate so that his stomach is full over the evening.
Create a safe, comfortable and quiet den area for your dog.
Ideally, this should be in a place which is furthest from the fireworks, and where he is used to resting.
The room should be able to be darkened to hide the firework flashes.
Ensure that he has some toys to play with and that you have something to keep yourself occupied.
Importantly, check your environment, making sure that it is safe and secure and that your dog cannot escape and bolt with fear.
Put the TV or some music on, preferably something with loud low tones as this will act as a distraction and help drown out the noise outside.
In extreme cases your vet might recommend sedative drugs for your dog.
If this is the case make sure they are given well before the start of the fireworks ensure that he does not start to panic.
Throughout this period it is important that you do not cater to your dog's fear.
Do not comfort him or reward him for his behavior, as he will consider that his fear is justified and this could lead to increased anxiety.
Instead you should act as normal showing that there is nothing to be afraid of.
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