Fireworks and dogs don't mix so here's what you do......................

Hello to my dog club and anyone else who might like to read this. As I won't be seeing you guys until after Fireworks night (and Diwali) I'll just have to give you your lesson now.............

Firework fears and noise phobias are common problems in dogs and its estimated that at least 80% of them are scared of fireworks.

How to recognise the symptoms of a noise sensitive dog:

Signs and symptoms a dog may exhibit, which can range from mild to extreme:

Urinating or defaecating, hiding

Chewing, panting, pacing or digging

Trying to escape, drooling or licking of lips

Seeking out the owner, flatulence ( with Jimmy it appears normal at any time)

Barking, trembling or dilated pupils

So what can we do about it:

Try and provide/make a den as in the picture, the blanket around the cage or den area can hopefully muffle the sounds of the bangs and if there are some tasty treats and toys the distraction of this can hopefully deflect noise issues

Other things you can do is to have a radio or television on at night and close windows and doors to keep the noise to a mimimum and don't forget to close the curtains

Try and ignore fearful behavior, dogs in particular may pick up on their owners anxiety making the problem worse. The best thing I would suggest is to leave your dog to cope independently. Only step in if they are causing harm to themselves or others.

When walking your dog, do it as early in the evening as possible because the more night it is the more sound travels.

This advice can apply to cats as well

Hope this helps and good luck!

TM