Social media and search engines are full of advice on how to calm pets during fireworks season.
In fact, data shows a 42 per cent increase in searches for the phrase ‘how to calm a dog’ and a 350 per cent increase in searches for ‘how to calm a dog from fireworks’ in October, ahead of Bonfire Night celebrations.
With worried pet owners often turning to the internet for advice ahead of contacting a veterinary professional, our practice manager Rhiannon Cartwright and expert team have reviewed the advice that is readily available online.
Read on to find out what our veterinary experts think to Google’s AI Overview - the top results users are presented with when searching for ‘how to calm a dog from fireworks’ - and tips from social media.
But before we get started, let’s understand why dogs and cats find fireworks so stressful.
Why are dogs scared of fireworks?
It’s the unpredictable nature of fireworks that makes them so stressful for dogs, cats and other small furries.
Fireworks are loud, bright and they come out of nowhere – they’re not a day-to-day noise and they are invading what is usually a pet’s safe space, therefore they are difficult to get used to.
Like us, loud noises make them jump, and that can make them very stressed.
This can also increase the risk of pets escaping or running away, raising the risk of injury.
One of our biggest pieces of advice is to keep dogs and cats safe and secure indoors once it gets dark to reduce the risk of physical injury.
How to calm dogs during fireworks
The online advice that dog owners are presented with includes creating a safe space, blocking out noise, letting your dog choose where they want to be and staying calm.
All of these can be useful tactics to help you determine the most suitable methods for calming your dog during fireworks.
Be proactive, not reactive
The most important advice we can offer as veterinary experts is to be prepared and have a range of options at your disposal to help calm your dog.
We always recommend being proactive, rather than reactive, so don’t leave it until fireworks are under way.
Aim to start the desensitisation process ahead of time with CDs or YouTube videos to get your dog used to unfamiliar sounds.
Alternative solutions
Other potential solutions that dog owners are presented with online include not reinforcing fear, using earmuffs or anti-anxiety wraps, and CBD products.
Here, we provide our professional opinion on if, and when, you should try any of these options.
Does comforting a dog during fireworks reinforce their fear?
It’s a grey area and the answer very much depends on your individual pet.
You don’t want to praise a behaviour that you don’t want, but at the same time you cannot ignore a distressed pet.
We always recommend working with your dog to understand their needs and how you can best help them, without adding to their discomfort.
Some dogs prefer comfort, while others prefer space.
CBD for dogs – is it safe to use?
With 1,900 searches for ‘CBD for dogs’ being made every month and searches peaking in the last week of October, pet owners are clearly exploring all options.
However, as veterinary professionals, we do not recommend using CBD drops to help calm your dog during fireworks season.
These are not licensed in the UK and, therefore, we do not know what effect these unverified products could have on your dog.
Are dog earmuffs for fireworks safe to use?
Dog earmuffs can be safe to use, but only if they do not cause additional stress or discomfort to your dog.
Again, it’s really about knowing your pet, understanding their behaviour and recognising if they become stressed.
If you’re unsure whether earmuffs or hoods will be suitable for your dog, you can try placing cotton wool in their ears to dampen the noise.
Be sure to monitor their behaviour and remove them immediately if you notice any discomfort.
Do anxiety wraps for dogs really work?
Anti-anxiety wraps can work on some pets and help to reduce stress.
Even DIY anti-anxiety wraps may be helpful if your dog is incredibly stressed and you are desperate to try every option.
Be aware that they won’t work for every dog and it is essential to monitor your dog’s behaviour while they are wearing a wrap.
If you are choosing the DIY approach, make sure it is not too tight and does not add to their stress.
How to block out firework noise for dogs
Thick curtains are useful for dampening the noisy bangs of fireworks and preventing pets from seeing the bright flashes.
We also recommend providing a place to hide until the fireworks are over; this could be a cupboard or a cardboard box with blanket over it. Again, these spaces can help to block the noise out.
Let dogs hide where they want to and let them come out in their own time.
Music can also help to block out the noise of fireworks and provide a calming distraction.
Calming music for dogs during fireworks
There are calming playlists on YouTube and Spotify designed especially for dogs, which can be beneficial for reducing stress.
Classical music is recommended ahead of any other genre. Try Classic FM’s Pet Classics during fireworks season to see if it helps your pet relax.
Dogs and fireworks - our top tips for keeping your pet calm
- If your dog is pacing, give them the space they need and provide them with options
- Give your dog a hiding place they can easily access, where they won’t be disturbed, such as a cupboard or space behind the sofa
- Don’t cuddle your dog if it makes them feel restrained – give them the opportunity to choose if and when they want to be comforted, and don’t force them into your arms if going to cause additional stress
- Let your dog settle next to you and provide gentle comfort without being restrictive
- Don’t ignore your dog, instead try to distract them from the noise – Kong toys and chewy feeding mats can be useful distractions
For professional, tailored advice on reducing fireworks stress for your pet, contact our team.
