WAYS TO CALM YOUR NERVOUS DOG DURING FIREWORKS
The Fourth of July celebrations with barbeques and fireworks can be so much fun for us but cause nervous dogs intense stress. There are several ways to calm your nervous dog during Fourth of July fireworks.
Create a calm Space
- Set Up a Comforting Environment: Create a quiet, comfortable space where your dog feels secure. Places like a crate, a specific room, or a calm corner with their bed and favorite things.
- Soundproofing: Close windows and curtains to help dampen the sound of fireworks. Playing calming music or white noise like the dishwasher or washing machine.
Utilize Calming Products
- Thundershirt: A Thundershirt or anxiety wrap applies gentle, constant pressure to help calm your dog. It can be a great way to calm your nervous dog during Fourth of July fireworks. https://thundershirt.com/
- Supplements: Try calming treats and supplements that contain ingredients like L-theanine, chamomile, and CBD.
- Pheromone Diffusers: Products like Adaptil release calming pheromones that can help reduce anxiety by emulating the comfort of a mother’s comforting messages. https://www.adaptil.com/us
Desensitization
- Gradual Exposure: Play recordings of loud noises at a lower volume and then gradually increase the volume over time. Reward your dog for staying calm. It’s most effective to start this well before the fireworks season.
- Positive Association: Accompany the sound of fireworks with positive experiences like treats, playtime, or petting to build a positive experience.
Stay Calm and Offer reassurance
- Remain Calm: Dogs take ques from their owners. They can pick up on any stress or discomfort, so stay calm and confident.
- Provide Comfort: Provide comfort to your dog if they are seeking it. Gentle petting, sitting close to them, and talking to them in a soothing voice can help more than anything.
Exercise and Distraction
- Pre-Fireworks Exercise: Take your dog for a long walk or engage in playtime to tire them out before the fireworks start. Dogtopia of Viera daycare can be a great way to burn energy.
- Distraction: Engage your dog with toys, puzzle feeders, or games to keep their mind occupied and focused on something other than fireworks.
Consider Professional Help
- Consult a Veterinarian: If your dog’s anxiety is severe, consult a vet. They may prescribe medication or recommend other interventions.
- Professional Training: A professional dog trainer or behaviorist can provide personalized strategies for managing your dog’s anxiety.
Plan Ahead
- Avoid Fireworks: If possible, take your dog to a location where fireworks are less easily heard. Dogtopia of Viera’s playrooms are built with sound dampening in mind. Dogs can not hear thunder or fireworks from inside.
- Identification: Prepare by making sure your dog is wearing identification tags and is microchipped in the event they get scared and run.
Fourth of July is one of the most anxiety inducing nights for dogs, which leads to frequent escapes. If you are concerned about your dog’s anxiety during a potentially loud night, consider Dogtopia of Viera for all boarding and dog hotel needs.
Your dog will spend the night with other like-minded dogs focusing on their socialization skills in a comfortable and safe environment while you celebrate the holiday. You can have peace of mind they will be content even on such a hectic night. It’s a win-win!
CONTACT US
If you’re interested in booking any of our daycare, boarding, or spa services, please fill out our online contact form or call us at 321-294-4102 to arrange a meeting with our team. We can’t wait to welcome you and your pet to their new home away from home.
