FIREWORKS - Prepare your pets. New Year's Eve.

Posted on 12/27/2023

Here are some tips for preparing your dog for fireworks:

Sound desensitization

Play a CD of fireworks sounds and offer small pieces of tasty treats as rewards. Practice these training sessions multiple times a day but for short periods. You can also try pairing the sounds with their favorite treat.
Create a safe space

Create a space in your home that is well-insulated from outside noise and includes all of your dog's comfort items. You can fill the space with pillows and blankets, and hang thick fabric on the walls.
Remain calm

Many animals pick up on non-verbal body language. If you get scared and stressed out, your dog is likely to sense this right away.
Walk dogs early

Take your dog on a walk earlier than usual when it's still light out. This can ensure that your dog is safely at home when the fireworks start.
Use a ThunderShirt

Experts recommend the ThunderShirt to help calm anxious dogs. It can be effective in situations where your dog is afraid, such as during fireworks, thunderstorms, or while traveling.

Other tips include:

Investing in a pheromone diffuser
Keeping cats in
Providing plenty of hiding spaces
Closing windows, curtains, and blinds
Turning up the radio or TV
Giving rabbits extra bedding

If you know your animal is very fearful of fireworks, you can talk to your veterinarian well before the fireworks are scheduled. They can provide professional advice on other ways to help your pet, such as training and medication..

Have your pet microchipped. If your pet becomes fearful or anxious and runs away almost all providers of animal services can scan a lost animal to see where their home is and contact you. Microchipping can be done at any Vet and most pet supply stores