It’s that time of year again – firework season. With Bonfire night fast approaching on Tuesday 5th November, you are likely wondering how to keep your dog calm. Of course, the fireworks are not strict to one night only, and many will decide to have their night of fireworks earlier or later than this date. The loud bangs can really startle our poor four-legged friends, so it’s important to help them feel safe and relaxed.
Within this article, we will help you to do just that! Discover our top tips for keeping your canine companion calm on Bonfire night.
What are the signs my dog is anxious?
Before we get started, let’s discuss the signs that show that your dog is feeling anxious:
- Destructive Behaviour (tearing at your furniture and ripping apart their toys or other objects etc)
- Barking
- Potty Accidents
- Excessive Panting
- Hiding
- Aggression
- Shaking or Trembling
- Pacing and Restlessness
- Repetitive and Compulsive Behaviour
- Loss of appetite
If your dog shows signs of anxiety, it’s a good idea to contact your vet for advice and to check there are not a result of any underlying medical conditions.
If you have confirmed that your dog is scared of the loud firework noises, read on to find out our solutions to help your four-legged friend cope.
1. Create a safe haven for your dog
This is where a nice roomy doggy crate can be useful. If your dog has a crate, place it in the centre of the room away from any windows. To make the crate feel like a safe space, you can put their cosy bed inside with additional blankets, tasty treats, and their favourite toys to distract them. We recommend stuffable toys like Toppl’s and KONG’s as these can be filled with your pup’s favourite treats. These mentally stimulating toys will keep them entertained for hours when fireworks start. You can also make sure you have drawn all the curtains so they are not disturbed by any flashes of light.
2. Put on the TV or play classical music
Another way to keep your pet calm during firework night is by masking the loud noises. You could put on the television or play some calming music to help them relax. Classical music in particular is said to have a very calming effect on our furry friends. Dr. Lori Kogan reported that dogs that were exposed to classical music spent more time sleeping and less time barking. This is because classical music reduces levels of stress in dogs as well, not just their humans!
3. Feed your dog earlier than usual
If you expect an evening of loud bangs, we recommend feeding your dog earlier than usual before they start. Anxious dogs will often avoid food and completely lose their appetite, so to make sure they have eaten – feed them before the fireworks start. It’s also crucially important to walk your dog before firework displays kick off. The bangs are loud enough inside, we wouldn’t want to make our furry friends more anxious by taking them outside during this time.
4. Comfort your dog (if they seek reassurance)
Dogs cope in different ways, some will want to run away, hide, and be left alone. While others will seek your comfort and reassurance. If your dog likes to be held and comforted, be sure to do so to help them stay calm. It helps if you act as normal as possible too, dogs can sense if you are worried so try to remain calm and this will help them to relax.
5. Provide your dog with calming products or interactive toys
There are a wide variety of dog products out there that can reduce anxiety in dogs. Whether you use calming products such as ADAPTIL Calm Diffusers, Sprays and Shampoos, (available in some of our dog-friendly hotels), or interactive toys to keep your pup distracted, these are a great way to help your dog distract themselves during extremely stressful situations.
If you speak to your vet, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to your furry friend to help your dog cope during fireworks season.
PetsPyjamas Hotels Pawfect for a Quiet Escape
We hope this article has helped you with keep your dog calm on firework night. Alternatively, you could treat your four-legged friend to a relaxing holiday within one of our pet-friendly hotels including Adaptil calming products. To find out more, visit our Adaptil blog about the Ulti-Mutt Woof Well-Being Retreat. Or, book online today with PetsPyjamas.
Top Relaxing Dog-Friendly Hotels
Some of our best dog-friendly hotels for a relaxing break include:
- The Bell Inn New Forest, Hampshire: A charming 18th century coaching Inn within the countryside. This property is not only super dog-welcoming, but also features Adaptil calming rooms with wellbeing guides, and calming communal spaces using Adaptil Calm Diffusers.
- The Godolphin, Cornwall: The Godolphin sits in a pocket of paradise on Cornwall’s beautiful west coast. There is nothing more relaxing than being right by the sea, with picture perfect sandy walks right on your doorstep. The wonderful property also features Adaptil calming rooms, calming communal spaces, and Adaptil Travel Sprays at Reception.
- New Place Hotel, Hampshire: An idyllic retreat pawfect for your anxious dog. Located in the heart of the Hampshire countryside, your pup won’t have to worry about being disturbed by loud noises here! The dog-friendly bedrooms keep comfort at the forefront, ensuring a rejuvenating night’s sleep for both you and your canine companion.
- Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa, Lake District: Set on the shores of the beautiful Bassenthwaite Lake, the dog-friendly Armathwaite Hall Hotel is a peaceful doggie paradise. Both you and your furry friend will feel relaxed as Adaptil Calming Products are used throughout the property.
- The Retreat at Elcot Park, Berkshire: Once voted one of the best places to stay by the Sunday Times, a stay at this beautiful gotel is a tranquil experience. With Adaptil products being used in the communal areas and your luxury bedroom, your anxious dog is sure to leave feeling truly rested and restored.
