17/10/2025
Some great advice here, this would also be a great preventative protocol if you have a young or new dog whose noise reaction is unknown 🤗
We re very sorry but we are going to have to say the F word
….
Freaking Fireworks 😔🎆
Here in the UK the days are shortening rapidly and we move into one of the most dreaded times of the year for many animal carers -bonfire night / Guy Fawkes / November 5th …. But events and random fireworks just as likely for sometimes 2 weeks before and after.
So …. We highly recommend taking action now
We ll do a separate post on other animals, but here focus on dogs
- start shifting your evening walk if you do one, a bit earlier every day
- play some calm music when you arrive back, and as you close curtains / blinds earlier than normal and turn both TV and radio on if you have available
- use this as a signal to your dog you are about to do something together that is calm and fun … maybe a lickimat or similar with you say nearby, or some grooming whist you tell them a story, a massage or stroking session, some new odour / toy investigation
- at this time, practice giving a firm treat or piece of kibble wrapped in some pate (to mimic any medication giving)
- during the calm, connection session turn on some extra background music with a good beat (like rhythmic drumming or similar). Start quietly and over a few nights, increase the volume Leave this on every evening for an hour or more already so it is part of the routine
- if you think your dog might benefit from anti anxiety or anti anxiety and sedating medication on nights of anticipated noise, call your vets now to organise a weight and health check and get that prescribed
It can also be a good time to get their chip checked - is it working, are your details up to date ?
- for some dog / caregiver combos, you might find that heading off on a drive with the radio on whilst you head somewhere away from events is a helpful avoidance. Just ensure you set off early to avoid trying to get in your vehicle when bangs may go off, and always make sure your dog is wearing a secure collar / harness / lead with all your contact details.
I know many of us would really prefer there were no such events or loud noises, not just for our animals but for wildlife too (and many humans) but as that still isn’t the case, prepared is preferred
