Dogs and the Fear of Fireworks

Many dogs are afraid of fireworks. July 4th is one of the most dangerous evenings for a dog. When left outside, they dig out or jump fences trying to hide. Some dogs have become so frightened they have had heart attacks. They will panic and become frenzied and then just run, sometimes for miles. July 5th shelters take in more dogs than any other time. This is a problem that can be easily stopped by being attentive to your dog on this evening, make sure they are inside, have your dog wear their collar with their identification and be sure your dog is microchipped. Here are some training tips that you can do to prepare your dog for fireworks long before the actual event!

Desensitization - Many pets are successfully helped by using desensitization CD's. These simulate the random and unpredictable nature of the firework noise. Start several weeks prior to the evening of the fireworks; begin with the volume low, your dog should just be curious about the noise but not timid or anxious. Play it for several days at this level and gradually increase the volume over several weeks.

Distraction - To help increase the effects of the desensitization, while the CD is playing; train with your dog, play with them, or give them a favorite toy or chew.

Dole Out Treats - On the night of the event, if your dog is still somewhat anxious but will take treats, click every time a sound happens and toss them a treat. You will do this about 40 times. After that you will stop using the clicker and when the firework goes off and makes noise then toss your treat, basically the firecracker becomes the click. Do this until your dog hears the noise then immediately looks to you for the treat! I did this for about 4 hours, the last hour or so my dogs could care less about the fireworks or the treats. Use high value treats and keep them SMALL!

Den - Create a safe, comfortable and quiet area for your pet. This should both hide the flashes and be able to soften the noise. Get them comfortable in an area before the night of the fireworks and teach them that it's a good place to be by training, feeding or playing in that area depending on the size of the area. Look over your home and take some time to think about this - from your dog's point of view. Set up the area where they are likely to be most happy. Where is the quietest place? Some dogs like to lie under the table and you could try covering the sides with a blanket? Or, try a covered crate or a large cardboard box, both filled with comfortable bedding, favorite toys or chews and some water. Also you want them to be able to come and go, and that the place is safe.

DAP - If you already know that your dog is scared, then try a DAP collar, plug in or spray which releases calming pheromones. Plug it in where the dog spends most of its time for about 2 weeks. Their sleeping area is a great spot! Use the DAP products before you start the desensitization work, and then keep it going.

Day of the Event

1. Check that the den area is accessible and prepared - this area will now be a happy safe place for your dog

2. Make sure your dog has been let out to use the bathroom before the fireworks begin and then bring them back in. Do not leave them outside.

3. Feed them an hour before the event, maybe adding a little extra to fill them up and make them sleepy.

4. You can also play "Through a Dog's Ear" music CD in the room. This arrangement of music calms and soothes many dogs as it is playing. Also put a Thundershirt on your dog. This fits snug like a little coat. It makes dogs feel secure and brings anxiety levels down.

5. When the fireworks start, take them to the den area and encourage them to settle there.

6. If they don't settle, try to distract them with a game or an easy training session, click and treat for each firework!

7. Some dogs have been known to find the most unusual places to find comfort - under desks, in closets and even burrowed under blankets! Don't worry about this, just work with your dog and help to make the place feel more secure.