Keeping your Dog Calm during Fireworks and Other Loud Noises

[Tony Avisato]

It’s fair to say that dogs hate loud noises. Anyone who has experienced trying to calm their dog during a thunderstorm or fireworks display can attest to this fact. They can be terrifying and uncomfortable for both for the pet and the owner. For many dogs, their fear causes them to lose control their reactions to loud noises. Often this leads to destructive behavior, in the form of broken windows or scratched doors, and sometimes harmful behavior that leads to lacerations, foot pad injuries, or teeth and mouth injuries. It all stems from trying to escape the loud noises.

So what do you do? How do you help your dog through this stressful time? Here are a few methods for keeping your dog calm during the next loud thunderstorm or explosive fireworks display:

Many vets recommended playing calming music. Obviously a soothing selection would be more appropriate than a song in the heavy metal genre. A relaxing classical piece can help calm your dog's stressed out nerves.

Show your dog lots of attention. Petting, cuddling and playing with your dog can sometimes help alleviate many of its fears. Get out his or her favorite dog toys as a quick distraction from what is going on outside.

How about creating a little safe refuge for your dog? Some dogs always hide in a certain location during thunderstorms, so make their hiding spot a little more peaceful and comfortable. Place your dog’s favorite blankets and toys in this little area and allow the dog to remain there until it calms down enough to come out. Some dogs seek refuge in their dog crates so don’t forget about adding some relaxing touches there too.

While it may seem like a fun idea to take your dog with you to a neighbor’s 4th of July party, your dog certainly won’t this so. The added stress of strangers plus loud noises can often prove too much for a dog’s nerves. Keeping your dog at home in a comfortable safe environment is better for everyone, especially the dog.

If you know fireworks will start at a certain time or see thunderstorm clouds moving in, it is advisable to take your dog for a walk beforehand. This way it has time to go potty before the loud noises begin. When frightened, the dog may not want to do their business, and this may lead to an accident in your home.

An often overlooked aspect of care for pets scared of loud noises is to keep their pet ID is current and up to date. Your pet should have proper identification tags, with current information, in case it runs away from your home in a panic. The proper identification can help local authorities and animal shelters find and identify your dog.

Learn to recognize the signs of when your dog becomes overcome with fear and anxiety of loud noises and use some these tips to calm its worries.  Don’t be afraid to talk to your veterinarian if loud noises become an even bigger problem for your dog.

For other ways to keep your dog calm during fireworks, read more here.

[PetBrags Pet Lovers Paradise]

Hi Tony,

Thanks for this article. I hate I missed it until now. But, always good information to have on the site. Great domain name you have there. How in the World did you manage that?! ;-) dog.com!

Best Regards,

Jen

[Wanda P]

Great information, thanks