06/17/2024
With firework season approaching here are some tips:
1. Make sure your place is escape proof.
2. Have safety protocols in place for worst case scenarios- tracking devices, chips, up to date contact information etc.
3. Create a safe place for your dog
4. Start your pups young with similar sounds- desensitizing and conditioning them to get used to booms from thunder and fireworks. I do this by playing the sounds low at first and if my dog notices the sounds I say, “just thunder! Or just fireworks!” Then I refocus them on some fun games that we can play, like retrieving a toy, puzzles, mind games. This teaches them there isn’t anything to worry about and that it’s more positive. Then I start turning the sound up as we progress.
5. Tire your dog out beforehand-structured play like retrieve, come and get it game from class, obedience work, walk, and mental games and puzzles.
6. Some dogs have already built a negative to the sounds, so you can try refocusing, like from number 4, on games, puzzles and playing. Do number 5. Also try turning on music or tv to block some of the noise.
7. For dogs that are super anxious or fearful. Having the safe place created where it is more quiet helps, I tend to use my bathroom and then have music on for them. You can try some natural calming treats or even a few flakes of catnip on something yummy to help calm them.
8. If nothing else seems to help calm your dog get some meds from your vet to help their anxiety.
