01/11/2026
Some great advice from our friends at Absolutely Pawsome. 🐾🐾
FIREWORK SEASON AND YOUR DOG!!!!
Fireworks might be spectacular for us, but for many dogs they can be frightening, confusing and stressful. Here are some things you can do to help your dogs:
🐾 COMBAT NOISE WITH NOISE
Close windows and doors, draw the curtains and put the television and radio on. Familiar background noise can help mask some of the bangs and reduce the impact of sudden sounds. You could even try some music, but make sure your dog is comfortable with it.
🐾 CREATE A SAFE SPACE
Give your dog somewhere cosy and comfortable where they can retreat if they feel worried: a covered crate (if they enjoy using one), a space under a table, their favourite bed in a quiet room, or simply being with you. Make sure they can access their safe space whenever they need it. Never force them to stay somewhere they don't want to be.
🐾 PLAN YOUR WALKS
Walk your dog earlier in the day, while it's still light. Give your dog plenty of opportunity to sniff, run and explore. Avoid walking during expected firework times. Only venture out for essential toilet trips once you are confident the fireworks have stopped. If you do need to go out, keep your dog securely on a lead.
🐾 DOUBLE-CHECK THEIR IDENTIFICATION
Make sure your contact details are up to date on your dog's microchip. A frightened dog can bolt in an instant, so don't leave anything to chance.
🐾 THINK DOUBLE SAFETY
If you have a dog who is a flight risk, consider using a double attachment system, like a lead secured to both collar and harness. A frightened dog can be incredibly strong and may wriggle out of equipment you thought was secure.
🐾 MAKE YOUR GARDEN ESCAPE-PROOF
Check fences, gates and any potential escape routes. Accompany your dog into the garden and keep them on a lead, even if you have a securely fenced garden. Never underestimate what a frightened dog can do when they are desperate to get away from something.
🐾 KEEP THEIR BRAINS BUSY
Mental stimulation can go a long way. Try some scent games, scatter feeding, food puzzles, snuffle mats or simple training exercises.
🐾 BE THERE FOR THEM
If your dog wants to be close to you, let them. If they want to hide, let them. If they seek reassurance, give it. Do not believe what you read on social media: You cannot reinforce an emotion such as fear by offering comfort. There is no need to ignore your dog or expect them to cope on their own. Be their safe person.
❤AND LET'S NOT FORGET OUR OLDER DOGS! ❤
Ageing brings additional challenges that we don't always think about.
Their hearing may have changed. Some older dogs may be less responsive to certain sounds, while others can become more sensitive to sudden or unexpected noises. Don't assume that an older dog who has previously coped well with fireworks will necessarily cope in the same way now.
We also need to consider mobility, arthritis and other age or pain conditions. Imagine an older dog who is already experiencing joint discomfort being startled by a sudden bang. They may jump, scramble or move suddenly, potentially aggravating an existing painful condition or even injuring themselves.
A few additional precautions can help:
🐾 Put down non-slip rugs or runners, particularly on laminate, tiled or wooden flooring. An unexpected scramble on a slippery surface can really hurt them.
🐾 Make sure their safe space has comfortable, supportive bedding and is easily accessible.
🐾 Keep their water, bedding and essential resources close by so they don't have to navigate the house unnecessarily.
🐾 If your dog is already receiving pain relief, make sure their treatment plan is up to date. Speak to your vet beforehand if you think they may need additional support.
🐾 Watch for changes in behaviour. An older dog who suddenly becomes unsettled, restless or reluctant to move may not simply be frightened - pain or discomfort could also be contributing.
And remember, the same rules about secure gardens, early walks, safe spaces and double security apply just as much to our senior citizens.
Every dog is an individual. Some will sleep through the fireworks, some will be a little unsettled, and others will find the whole experience genuinely terrifying.
And if your dog has a significant fear of fireworks, speak to your vet sooner rather than later. There are additional veterinary support options available, and nobody should have to simply endure that level of distress.
Please share this post. It might just help another dog owner prepare before the first firework goes off.
