Dog Fireworks Phobia: What is It?
Let's face it, some dogs are more chicken-like than their counterparts. If you have a fearful and nervous dog, she may be frightened by loud sounds like fireworks, thunderstorms, and even backfiring cars. She won't know what's going on at the time and won't know what to do or even how long the scary sounds will last.
When Independence Day and other celebrations approach, it's a good idea to start preparing your dog for the noises you know will come.
Tips to Teach Your Dog Fireworks Are Fun
Okay, well maybe she'll never think they're FUN, but at least you can help ease her terror the next time the sky explodes with red, white, and blue. Here are a few pointers to consider:
- Prepare your dog in advance. Before the festive day approaches, buy a CD that features the sound of fireworks. These are available in many stores, including online (try searching for keywords "fireworks CD"). Play the CD at home during the day, starting at low volume, and carry on your business as usual. Gradually increase the volume of the CD over several days, until you can play it very loud without sending your pooch into a seizure.
- When the big day comes, and she still acts frightened, try distracting her with a spirited game of fetch or some yummy treats.
Turn up the TV or radio to muffle the sounds coming from outside. - If you have a basement, spend the evening there. Underground rooms tend to mask more sound than ground-level floors.
- Above all, don't coddle or baby her when she acts afraid. Like a child, your dog will tend to look to you for her cues on how to act in unknown situations, and if you take her fear seriously and baby her, you'll simply be validating it. Act casual and unconcerned; talk to her in your normal voice and don't cater to her fear.
Of course, some dogs suffer extreme agitation and fear around loud noises. If you cannot help your dog through an evening of fireworks with the suggestions listed above, you may need more heavy-duty help. Consult your veterinarian or a professional trainer about the problem. They may advise you on medications or other therapeutic calming devices that have been tested with success for your dogs fireworks phobias.
