It has been observed that most of the dogs are frightened by fireworks, The Fourth of July can be a miserable day for dogs.
A dog's hearing is nine times that of a human. Therefore there is a higher probability of a canine becoming anxious and uncomfortable if or when they encounter any severe, loud banging noises. That’s because dogs, like humans, are hardwired to be afraid of sudden, loud noises. It is what keeps them safe. Some dogs, though, take that fear to the extreme with panting, howling, pacing, whining, hiding, trembling and even self-injury or escape. And, unlike humans, they don’t know that the fanfare on the Fourth is not a threat. Dogs hear the fireworks and process it as if their world is under siege.
Even canines who are not affected by such symptoms could find themselves susceptible to discomfort when they experience unknown and shrill noises. Therefore, it is essential to be cognizant of the various ways which would help relieve a dog from discomfort.
so as a paw leader or a leader of your pack what can you do to help them?
#1 Create a “safe haven” in your home with a secure door or gate, preferably away from outside windows or doors. Close the blinds or curtains to reduce outside noises, and play some classical music to help reduce stress by creating a relaxing environment for your dog during the show. A white noise machine or box fan may also help reduce anxiety, along with a pheromone like Adaptil sprayed on bedding, a bandanna, a collar or from a diffuser plugged into the wall, Consider noise-canceling headphones such as Mutt Muffs to muffle the sounds and further reduce noise sensitivities.
#2 Desensitization Method: - Play an audio at minimal volume. Take stock of the behavior exhibited by the scared during the audio. Keep in mind the listening capacity of a dog and reduce the volume level if necessary. Involve the dog in any kind of activity he enjoys to distract him from the sounds. Remain serene to alleviate the anxiety of the dog scared by fireworks since your reaction might super-impose the canine's behavior. Gradually raise the volume as the dog begins to gain confidence and become more comfortable. Replicate this technique many times for some days gradually increasing the volume level.
#3 keep your behavior calm in case your dog shows any signs of anxiety. Normally, owners baby their dogs in such a situation. Act indifferent to the situation; your dog will take cues from your reaction and modulate his negative behavior accordingly. Any anxious behavior by you might exacerbate the discomfort of the already scared dog. Every reaction of yours is liable to be picked up and reciprocated by your pet. Play some soothing music or increase the volume of your television. Doing this will provide some background noise and help to fade out the sound of the firecrackers. Close up windows, drapes and blinds to also help diminish the volume of outside noises. Do not abstain your dog from finding a safe haven for relieving himself from the discomfort he may be experiencing. Let him stay is his comfort zone and maintain calmness by making the dog scared by firework feel at ease. A scared dog might resort to violence to defend himself. Any irresponsible act by you might provoke him to be ferocious towards you or others.
#4 Find a food your pet will love. This could be cut pieces of boiled chicken or squeeze cheese. Sit with your pet and feed him with each boom. You can also use a long-lasting food-dispensing or puzzle toy to release food continuously during the show. This is to help your dog make a positive association with the noises for the future.
#5 Consider anxiety wraps, fabric wraps and anti-anxiety toys - you can find him in our toys products - click here to see our new dog toy , or let him rest in his relaxed corner with his cozy fur bed and just pat him along the fireworks. that exert a gentle pressure on your dog’s body. These may help to lower heart rate and other clinical signs of fear and anxiety, operating on the belief that they swaddle a scared animal and thus calm its fears. These work best, however, in conjunction with a complete behavior treatment plan including medication or behavior modification, or both.
In case your pet resorts to violent behavior in the event of seasonal fireworks and begins to cause harm or destruction, it could be time to make an appointment with your veterinarian. A scared dog who becomes unpredictable or violent is a danger to himself as well as to the people who are around him. In such a case, your vet might prescribe the administration of certain sedatives to relieve your four legged best friend and keep him safe during firework festivities and celebrations.
Happy Independence Day to you and your furry friend
Paw Leader.
