I know it may seem a little early – but – the firework season is just around the corner. If this is going to be your pets first experience, or if you know they run for cover when a sparkler is lit – it is a good idea to start preparing them now.
The use of sound CD’s for desensitisation is a great pro-active move to help your dog learn to relax. You can buy these on-line or even download whizzes and bangs from the internet.
Start with the sound at a level that your dog can cope with, so they are aware but still paying attention to you and whilst the sounds are playing, teach your dog to do a simple down stay and reward the dog whilst they are in position.
Gradually increase the volume of the noises so that your dog is still focusing on you. If they are focusing on you and not the noises then helping them stay calm will be so much easier. Don’t rush turning up the volume, move at the pace that your dog sets.
Create a ‘safe area’ – If your dog usually sleeps happily in a crate you should use this as their den, all you need to do is cover the crate with a blanket – but, don’t shut the door.
If you haven’t got a crate, you could use a large cardboard box, turn it on its side for easy access in and out.
Do they already have a hideaway? Some dogs will run behind a sofa, or under a table – if this is the case, on the day make it comfy for them – drape a blanket over the table and give them lots of blankets for them to dig into
Here are a few simple tips from Jo Crosby-Deakin ACFBA (S049) (MT)GoDT MIACE PAACT 112 from K9 Solutions to help them cope when the racket starts:-
• Make sure your dog has been exercised and fed before the bangs start.
• Keep your pets inside and keep the curtains or blinds closed so you can block out the flashes as much as possible.
• Have the TV or radio on to mask some of the noise.
• Don’t anticipate your fear. If you are cooing over them and waiting for them to be scared then you will only make matters worse. This doesn’t mean that you can’t talk to them or touch them, just be calm and at ease about it.
• Play with your dog or do some little bits of training to keep their mind off of the noises.
• Do not punish your dog for their fear, they can’t help it, but you should also avoid praising your dog for it as well. Remember our dogs do not understand what we are saying to them and will see any type of reassurance from us as reinforcement for their fear.
• There are some herbal medications and products that you can get for your dog to help them cope. Dorwest Herbs Scullcap and Valarian or Valarian compound are my first choice when it comes to nerves and fear but if your dogs reaction is extreme then speak to your vet about something stronger.
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