Last night for the first time this year we had noticeable firework noise. We have a gorgeous three month old pup, Socks, for whom this was a new experience.
We turned the TV up a bit and tried to pretend it was perfectly normal to be in the middle of a World War and Socks was curious at first but seemed not too worried by it.
We didn't have a plan, should we have been getting her ready somehow? Have we left it too late?
Is it best to keep her inside after dark until this passes or might we convince her its normal if we take her out on a lead and just reassure her.
Be grateful for any hints as to how to make sure we have a bomb proof pup!
Marco, by email
Hi there,good question! Why not take a look at www.dogsandfireworks.com which is a free downloadable resource we put together for this very purpose. It has been put together as a joint effort by myself and two other behaviour professionals to help owners prepare or, if time has run out, to put in place an 'emergency' plan. There is the option to donate to the Dogs Trust, too, so if you like the download please do donate.
ReplyDeleteIt may be a little late for a gradual desensitisation programme but on the site you can download a free mp3 fireworks sound file. There is even a video on the site too.
I wouldn't advise just taking your dog out on a lead, as I have seen cases of severe phobia which have begun from a single event whilst out on a walk around Nov 5th. Firework fear does not affect all dogs but it is probably best to take a gradual approach.
Karen
Many people start a bit too late when it comes to preparing their dogs for fireworks night (or should I say week). Put some leg work in starting a few weeks or even months before bonfire night and you should have a happier dog. I hope you find some of these suggestions useful at D for Dog, Surviving Bonfire Night and Fireworks Fear http://www.dfordog.co.uk/didyouknow_fireworks_fear.htm
ReplyDeleteMost vets can advise you on this situation and often have leaflets available. But many times they are available too late in the year. As previous posters have mentioned, try a gentle desensitisation program many months in advance of November.
ReplyDeleteIt's quite important not too reinforce the dogs fears (if any are present) by overly comforting or shouting at the dog. Try yawning in front of an anxious dog. It is mutual body language that the dog can pick up on and can create calm in the dog.
Also the vet can provide you with a DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) spray or diffuser which produces the same smell a bitch produces whilst nursing the pups. They can produce a calming effect. Start using them well before the first band though as not many things will help an overly anxious dog once it has past a certain threshold.
You may find Socks is OK though especially if you are OK with the fireworks. Good luck.