5 Things to Do Before Fireworks Start to Keep Your Dog Calm and Safe
So, you think you’re ready for the New Year’s Eve festivities, right?
That anxious feeling in your stomach when you think about the fireworks and your dog’s reaction is completely normal. Loud fireworks can cause extreme stress and anxiety for many dogs, but before the big night rolls around, you can take a few steps to prepare and ensure a calm, safe evening for your furry friend.
By the end of this post, that nervous feeling will be long gone as you’ll have a foolproof plan to keep your dog as comfortable as possible.
1. Make Sure You Create a Safe Space
This one may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many pet owners don’t set up a designated safe space for their dog during fireworks. Dogs need a quiet, secure area where they can retreat to when they feel scared.
Don’t let your dog roam freely if they’re feeling anxious.
Here’s what you can do:
- Choose a quiet room or area away from windows.
- Set up their favorite bed, blanket, or crate, and include toys or treats.
- Drown out the noise with a white noise machine, calming music, or the TV.
For example: My dog’s favorite retreat is her crate, so I always make sure it’s comfortable with her favorite blanket and close the door to block out the noise from outside.
What to look out for:
Many pet owners assume their dog will be fine wherever they are, but dogs need a quiet place to escape when the noise becomes too much.
2. Take Your Dog for a Walk Early
Would you call yourself a last-minute person? Well, when it comes to New Year’s fireworks, you’ll want to plan ahead and take your dog out for a walk well before the fireworks start. The last thing you want is to try and walk your dog when they’re already feeling anxious.
Top tip: Plan your evening so that you’ve already had that last walk at least a couple of hours before the festivities begin. Not only will this help avoid the noise, but a walk will tire your dog out and help reduce their anxiety later.
What to look out for:
Don’t wait until the fireworks start to let your dog outside for a potty break. Once the booms and crackles begin, your dog will be too anxious to go outside, and you don’t want any indoor accidents!
3. Stay Calm Yourself
This one sounds simple but can be a bit tricky in the moment. If you’re nervous or stressed about your dog’s reaction, your dog will pick up on that energy. Dogs are very sensitive to our emotions, so staying calm and relaxed will help them do the same.
Here are some things you can do to keep calm:
- Take deep breaths and remain mindful of your body language.
- Use a soothing voice when talking to your dog—avoid sounding anxious.
- Practice your own relaxation techniques before the fireworks start.
For example: I used to get worked up about how my dog would react to fireworks, but now I focus on staying calm, and it has made a world of difference in how she responds.
What to look out for:
Your dog will mirror your emotions. If you’re panicking, your dog will panic too, so it’s essential to stay grounded and relaxed during the evening.
4. Distract with Toys or Treats
One of the best ways to keep your dog’s mind off the fireworks is to keep them busy with distractions. Puzzle toys, chew toys, or special treats can work wonders to help your dog focus on something positive instead of the scary sounds outside.
Here are some ideas for distractions:
- A Kong filled with their favorite treat.
- A long-lasting chew bone or bully stick.
- Interactive toys that challenge them mentally.
What to look out for:
Avoid feeding your dog too much at once if they’re feeling anxious. Sometimes anxiety can upset their stomach, so smaller treats or toys they enjoy will keep them distracted without overwhelming them.
5. Talk to Your Vet About Calming Aids
If your dog suffers from extreme anxiety during fireworks, it’s worth talking to your vet about possible calming aids. There are several options available, including natural remedies and prescribed medication, that can help your dog feel more at ease.
Here’s what you should ask your vet:
- Are there any calming supplements like CBD or melatonin that would help?
- Would a Thundershirt or anxiety vest be beneficial for my dog?
- Do they recommend prescription medication for severe anxiety?
For example: A friend of mine tried calming chews for her anxious dog last New Year’s, and it made a noticeable difference in how calm he was throughout the night.
What to look out for:
Always consult your vet before giving your dog any medication or supplements. They’ll be able to advise on the best approach based on your dog’s specific needs.
That’s a Wrap!
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