With the festive season upon us, fireworks are a thrilling finale to many Christmas/New Year celebrations – but not so much for the furry members of our community.
We spoke to local expert in doggos, Andrea Damen from the Bayside Dog Alliance, and asked her for some tips on how to best look after anxious dogs during a fireworks display:
1. Make sure your dog has a properly fitting collar with ID/registration tags attached.
2. Give your dog plenty of exercise during the day so they are tired.
3. Feed them well before the fireworks start and top up their water.
4. Keep your dog inside with the windows closed, blinds down or curtains closed.
5. Provide a safe place for them to go – move their bed under a table or into a half open cupboard, or they may even like to go under your bed or sofa.
6. Consider buying an anxiety wrap or thunder-shirt.
7. Remain calm yourself and don’t fuss over them too much, just put your hand on them for reassurance if they want to snuggle into you.
8. Consider a herbal therapy like Rescue Remedy.
9. Play some calming music or have the TV/radio on; it doesn’t need to be loud.
10. Look into Desensitization Sound Therapy for future fireworks or storm activity. Alternatively consider visiting friends in another area for the evening.
NOTE: These tips can also be applied during thunderstorms.
