How to Ease Dog Anxiety During Firework Season and the Darker Nights
As the days grow shorter and firework season approaches, many dogs experience increased anxiety. Whether it's the loud bangs from fireworks, the change in routine due to darker nights, or even Halloween activities, it's a tough time for our four-legged friends. Here’s how you can help ease your dog's anxiety and keep them calm during these stressful times.
1. Create a Safe Space
Make sure your dog has a designated spot in your home where they feel safe. This could be a cozy bed in a quiet corner or a room where they are less likely to hear the loud noises. Fill this space with familiar items like toys, blankets, or a favorite chew to help them feel secure.
2. Use Anxiety Jackets
A well-fitted anxiety jacket can work wonders. These jackets apply gentle pressure, much like swaddling a baby, which has a calming effect on dogs. They’re particularly useful during firework displays, as they help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
3. Distract With White Noise
Try turning on the TV, playing calming music, or using white noise machines to help drown out the sound of fireworks or other sudden noises that might cause anxiety. This can help soothe your dog and create a more relaxing atmosphere at home.
4. Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired dog is a relaxed dog! Take your dog for an extended walk during daylight hours before the fireworks or nighttime activities begin. If outdoor walks are tricky due to dark evenings, try mental stimulation games, puzzle toys, or indoor play sessions to keep their mind busy and distracted from external stressors.
5. Desensitization
In the weeks leading up to fireworks, you can begin desensitizing your dog to loud noises. Play firework sounds at a low volume while rewarding your dog with treats and praise. Over time, you can gradually increase the volume, helping your dog adjust to these noises.
6. Try Natural Remedies
Natural calming remedies, such as lavender or chamomile, can also help relax an anxious dog. Dorwest offers a great combination of Valerian Compound and Scullcap & Valerian tablets—both are highly effective for calming dogs during stressful times like fireworks season. Valerian helps reduce tension and promotes relaxation, while Scullcap acts as a mild sedative to soothe nerves without causing drowsiness.
What’s even better is that Dorwest is offering 25% off these products until Nov 5th! This is a fantastic opportunity to try these trusted remedies and help keep your dog calm and relaxed naturally. Always check with your vet before introducing new supplements.
7. Stay Calm
Your dog can pick up on your energy, so it's important to stay calm yourself. If you appear stressed or anxious, your dog is more likely to mirror those emotions. Try to remain relaxed and offer comfort without over-coddling, as too much attention can sometimes reinforce their anxiety.
8. Plan Ahead for Firework Nights
If you know a firework display is happening, plan ahead. Walk your dog early before the noise starts, and try to stay indoors with them. Closing windows and curtains can help reduce the noise and flashing lights. You can also give your dog a treat or puzzle toy to focus on during the display.
9. Use LED Collars for Late Walks
The dark evenings mean it’s more difficult to see when walking your dog, which can also be unsettling for them. Using an LED collar or reflective gear can help you keep an eye on your dog, and it also makes them more visible to cars and other pedestrians, providing an extra layer of safety.
10. Consult Your Vet
If your dog's anxiety seems severe, it's always worth consulting your vet. They may suggest short-term anti-anxiety medications for particularly stressful times, like during firework nights.