25/10/2025
10 Firework season tips! 🎆
Diwali has been celebrated this week, so many of you will have heard fireworks already. But with bonfire night and new years still to come (and any other unexpected night!), i thought it's worth a quick reminder of some helpful tips to keep your dogs calm and comfortable.
1. Background noise
Reduce the intensity of the firework bangs by using background noise. Classical music helps calm your dog, taiko drumming helps to disguise the bangs.
2. Safe space
A comfy den to hide away whether it's crate, a quiet corner or a blanket to hide under. Having a safe space is jmportant for your dog all year round but it becomes even more important at this time of year especially for anxious dogs.
3. Chews
This one is important before your dog gets unsettled. A tasty longer lasting chew or a lick matt is a great option to calm your dog. The calmer your dog is to start with will give you a better chance to keep them nice and settled.
4. Playtime
Keeping your dogs brain active and focused on play. Can be a great way to take their mind off the noises. A huge part of your dogs brain is dedicated to scent so try hide and seek with treats or a favourite toy.
5. Body language
Your body language and behaviour makes a huge difference. Dogs are masters at reading your body language. They will look to you for reassurance. If you stay calm and ignore the fireworks your dog will start to reciprocate your energy. Staying starts the moment you get home and greet your dog.
6. Exercise
Prepare in advance, make sure your dog is well exercised. A tired dog will be more sleepy and more likely to remain settled.
7. Food
If your dog has a larger meal in the evening , or maybe just one large meal in the evening your dog would naturally want to sleep whilst they digest their food.
8. Secure your garden
Take your dog out on lead to the toilet, check gates and fences are secure. Minimise the risk of your dog bolting if an unexpected firework is let off.
9.Find the right tools to help your dog
Thunder jackets (compression jackets) help ease anxiety, calming sprays and scents help make the environment more relaxing, herbal treats can help calm your dog ingredients such as valerian are proven to help calm your dog. For the most anxious dogs vets can prescribe medication - we would only recommend this as a last resort.
10. The Next Day
Check your garden for firework debris, don't let your dog off lead on walks until you have checked the area is free from firework debris - we have found the sticks from rocket fireworks upright in the ground - these risk impaling your dog if they run into them.
