Many dogs suffer from Noise Sensitivity which becomes more obvious around Firework season. There are some simple measures you can take now to help your dog to cope with the anxiety and stress this causes.

 Firstly prepare in advance to ensure you are not caught out by early firework noise. Build your dog a den in a quiet corner away from windows and doors. This can be a crate or pen covered with blankets and filled with your dogs favourite things. You can also use a table or 2 chairs with blankets draped over them. Encourage your dog to go in the den as much as possible beforehand by placing his food in there or a long lasting chew.

 Make sure you go out for a walk early to avoid any firework noise. There is a myth about not comforting your dog if they get anxious, this is totally wrong, just like us they can benefit from lots of calm reassurance if they are feeling anxious. There are lots of calming products on the market which some find useful, a pheromone plug in or spray, also wearing a snug wrap like a Thunder Shirt may help. Playing loud music or having the TV on will help to drown out the noise outside. Allow your dog to move around freely inside the house as restricting them may cause more anxiety. Remain nice and calm yourself and breath deeply, dogs often take their cues from us, if we're ok then it must be ok.

If your dog gets really stressed and pants heavily, drawls excessively, shakes or barks frantically please get some medication from your Vet in plenty of time before the event.

Please share with us anything you have found useful with your own dogs around this time of year. .