Fireworks, thunder and gunshot noise were the most common triggers of fear and many dogs actually exhibit more than just one noise phobic issue.
Over on Facebook I started a poll on what pets think about July 4th Fireworks. (Click over if you want to chime in.) So far the answers are about in alignment with the findings of at least one study on the matter.
If your pet suffers from fear of fireworks, there are short term strategies you can apply. However, long term resolution should be your goal since the problem only escalates over time.
Desensitizing a dog to fireworks and related noise is possible but it takes time and pre-planning. This means that if you haven’t been preparing in advance for the next fireworks event, you have to take actions that will help in the short term.
It is critical to get your canine into the veterinarian for an exam and some blood work first since a large number of behavior problems (an estimated 61%) are attributed to thyroid dysfunctions.
Relieving your pet of unnecessary stress and fear might be easier if you rule out this issue–or find out if it is in fact contributing to the phobia.
Dog Fireworks Fear Symptoms
A few signs that your canine is scared of fireworks include:
- inability to eat,
- shaking or trembling,
- pacing or restlessness,
- seeking close proximity to the owner,
- shelter seeking (to hide),
- excessive salivation,
- heavy panting,
- increased yawning,
- fear positioning (tail tucked, ears back, cringing),
- destructive behavior (chewing or scratching),
- self-mutilation (nervous chewing or licking),
- loss of bladder or bowel control,
- anal gland discharge,
- vomiting,
- stress related vocalizations (whining, howling, barking),
- attempts to escape (bolting or running blindly).
The overall trend is for dog fireworks fear to get worse over time.
Again, take the time to get over to a veterinary clinic for help and specific aids as soon as you can.
If your vet isn’t a board certified behavior specialist, get a referral from him or her to someone who is qualified to help.
Okay, time for some quick tips.
Dog Fireworks Fear Safety Tips
- Keep your animals primarily inside during firework displays and for a few days to a week prior to and just after the holiday.
- Make sure you have a tag with current information on your pet during this time.
- Tire your pet out with good amounts of exercise the days you expect firework displays.
- Tryptophan helps to relax and calm animals. It is found in turkey and pet supplements. Consider adding it to the diet as a temporary aid.
- If you take your animal outside for toileting or any other activity, make sure they are under physical restraint via a collar and leash.
- Leave your pets safely at home instead of taking them to picnics or other holiday events.
- Play music or turn on a radio station with soothing music to help mask outside noises.
- Buy a plug-in Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) dispenser. This permeates the air with a calming scent and reduces fear and anxiety.
- Keep your pet busy with activities or chew items before the height of noise making occurs.
- Visit your veterinary medical professional and ask for aids such as melatonin. This oral neurohormone often provides help for sensitive animals. Use with the veterinarians dosage recommendation and don’t try to do it yourself.
- Flower remedies are sometimes helpful and work on an energetic level. Five Flower® or Rescue Remedy® mixes may help reduce your pets anxiety. A holistic veterinariancan guide you on alternative options.
- Create a safe haven. If your animal is habituated to a crate you may want to provide confinement for security. Other options you may have available include the bathroom, laundry room, garage, basement, or any other “den” area. The room to choose is one where there are no windows to jump through, or where windows can be blocked off and that are too high and narrow to access.
- Some animals want to hide and will feel safe in a favorite spot, like under the bed. You can create sleeping bag tunnel or similar option for them.
- Plan a party and play at home instead of participating in other events. Making new traditions can be fun and helpful for your pet.
- Consider boarding your pet at a professional kennel for the holiday.