Bonfire Night might still feel a little way off, but October is a good time to start thinking about how your dog will feel when the fireworks begin.
A few small preparations now can help you create a more comfortable evening for them and give you time to get extra support if fireworks have been difficult before.
Here are our suggestions for getting started.
Create their cosy corner now
Does your dog have a favourite spot where they naturally settle? That’s a lovely place to start.
Choose a quiet area and add their familiar bed, blankets and favourite toy. Let them come and go freely, and enjoy spending time there together over the coming weeks. The aim is to make it somewhere they already feel comfortable before the noisy evenings arrive.
Some dogs like a tucked away den; others prefer being close to their humans. Follow your dog’s lead rather than choosing somewhere you think they ought to sleep.
The RSPCA recommends introducing a safe space ahead of firework season so dogs have time to get used to it.
Get familiar with quiet evening activities
Now is a good opportunity to discover what your dog enjoys doing when you’re relaxing at home.
That might be a food-filled enrichment toy, a little treat searching game or simply settling beside you with a favourite toy. Introduce these activities on ordinary quiet evenings first, so they’re familiar when you need them.
On a noisy night, offer an activity if your dog wants it. If they would rather hide or sit with you then let them choose. They don’t need to be kept busy the whole evening.
If last year was difficult, speak to your vet now
If your dog has previously trembled, paced, tried to escape or become very distressed during fireworks, contact your vet before the season gets busy.
You don’t have to wait until Bonfire Night to ask for help. An early conversation gives you time to discuss a plan suited to your dog including whether they need behavioural support or medication.
Dogs Trust advises making a vet appointment as soon as possible if your dog shows fear of fireworks.
Take your time with sound training
You may have heard about using firework recordings to help dogs become more comfortable with the noise.
This needs a careful, gradual approach with the sound kept low enough that your dog remains relaxed. Playing loud bangs to “get them used to it” can make things worse.
Follow a structured programme, such as Dogs Trust’s sound therapy guidance and seek professional advice if your dog already has a noise fear. It takes time so there’s no need to rush towards a November deadline.
Make a simple plan for noisy evenings
Check nearby display dates and plan walks for daylight, before fireworks are expected. Remember that fireworks may happen on several evenings around Bonfire Night.
At home, close windows and curtains, put on familiar television or music at a comfortable volume and arrange for your dog to have company. Keep doors secure and check that their identification and microchip contact details are current.
If they come to you for reassurance, it’s fine to offer gentle comfort. If they choose their quiet corner, give them space and avoid coaxing them out.
A little preparation, a familiar routine
You don’t need to transform your home or buy everything new. Familiar comforts, thoughtful planning and the right support are a good place to begin.
At Daisy’s Dog Empawrium we’re always happy to help you choose an enrichment toy or a cosy addition to your dog’s favourite corner. These can be part of a comfortable evening routine, alongside any advice from your vet.
Pop into our Bluewater boutique and tell us what your dog enjoys. We’ll help you find something that suits them.
