This article was medically reviewed by Sorin MCKnight, DVM, a veterinarian from Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center, College Station, Texas.
Medically Reviewed
Holidays that include fireworks, such as the Fourth of July can cause fear in your pet. Hillary Kladke/Getty Images
- Thundershirts are a great way to keep your dog calm in scary situations like fireworks.
- Also, take your dog to the best-insulated area in your house and comfort them.
- Natural remedies such as Casein or L-theanine may help calm your dog.
Your dog may be afraid of loud noises. Around There are many things you can do for your dog to make them feel more at ease, such as calming down when they see thunder or fireworks.
These are nine tips to help your dog stay calm in a frightening situation.
1. Keep your distance from them
Simply being with your dog can soothe them. Dr. Rebecca Greenstein is a Rover veterinarian medical advisor.
Greenstein says that it is important to be near your dog if they are experiencing something scary like fireworks. Because you don’t know what they’ll do or if they’ll run away, this is important.
2. Create a comfortable hiding spot
Dogs can hide from fear by hiding in places like the bathtub or under your bed.
Let them be if you find them this way. Don’t try to get them out of their hiding place. Dr. Leon says that if they feel secure there, then you should let them feel safe there. Dennis Leon, founder and medical director at Viva Pet Care.
You can make their hiding place as comfortable as you can by providing toys and blankets.
3. Do not listen to the sound
You can distract your dog by making other sounds to mask the sound of fireworks. Greenstein recommends:
- Use a white-noise machine, or an app
- Turn on the TV
- Music playing
Greenstein says this is an easy and effective way to protect pets from sudden, scary sounds. This isn’t foolproof because dogs’ ears are more sensitive than ours, and can hear more than us. However, it can help.
4. Move to an area with sound insulation
Greenstein says that while you will want to keep your dog safe in any scary situations, it is possible to take this to the next level by moving activities to a sound-insulated part of the house, such as the basement.
If you don’t have a basement, make sure your windows are closed to muffle sound. You can also use white noise, music or TV to aid.
5. Use pheromones
Pheromones, which are naturally produced chemicals that dogs release, can be used for many reasons such as finding a partner or bonding with their baby. Leon says that synthetic pheromones can be purchased in pet shops or online. They are similar to the ones mother dogs release when they are young and nursing their babies.
These pheromones can calm dogs because they biologically remind them that they are safe with their mother. Leon states that Adaptil is one of the most trusted and well-known brands. You may also find NaturVet.
These synthetic pheromones are available in many forms, including:
- Plug ins (like Air Fresheners)
- Collars
- Sprays
6. They can be put in a Thundershirt
Thundershirts, or thunder jackets, are helpful for some dogs. It is basically a vest that is tightened so it exerts pressure on the dog’s body.
Greenstein states that their snug fit can be a source for comfort and calm, much like a blanket on people.
It is important to secure it enough to provide relief. It won’t have the desired effect if it is too loose.
7. Offer them natural remedies and supplements.
These examples include:
- L-theanine
- L-tryptophan
- Casein
Supplement mixes are also available. Leon states that Composure Pro is a product that veterinarians trust.
Leon says that CBD is becoming more popular for anxiety-prone dogs. Leon recommends that you consult your veterinarian for the correct dosing instructions. Do not give your dog CBD products you have purchased for yourself or for another person. Don’t assume that they will be the same dosing.
Your vet should be consulted before you give your dog supplements. Leon states that your vet will be able to ensure your dog is not taking any contraindications or have no interactions with any other medications.
8. Prescribe them medications
Talk to your vet if your dog is anxious or has a history of fearful situations.
Notice: You should speak with your vet if your dog is prone to aversions to fireworks. This will give you enough time to make sure your dog has the right medication.
Leon mentions that the following drugs are most commonly prescribed:
- Alprazolam
- Clonidine
- Gabapentin
- Trazodone
9. Counterconditioning and desensitization
Although this won’t be a quick fix for your dog’s fear in the heat of the moment, it can make your dog less afraid long-term.
Dogs can be desensitized by exposure therapy. Leon suggests that you can watch YouTube videos with firework sounds in non-scary circumstances. You can start by playing it at a low volume. Gradually increase the volume until your dog is exposed more.
Play with your dog while you do this. Give them treats to help them become less sensitive to sounds. They will eventually associate sounds with positive emotions and rewards.
Insider’s takeaway
Pet parents don’t want to see their pets suffer from fear. There are many things you can do to help your dog feel more at ease in fearful situations. Ask your veterinarian for help.
Ashley Laderer
Although we may be compensated for any sales made through our links, our recommendations and reporting are always objective and independent.
Similar articles
PETS Six things your dog may be trying to communicate with you by staring at the screen, according to vets
PETS 6 things that your dog is trying tell you by howling
PETS How do you tell if your dog is suffering from worms?
PETS What length of sleep your dog should be getting each night and signs of unusual sleep patterns
