How to keep your dog calm during Halloween & Bonfire Night
While the 31st October and 5th November may be harmless fun for us grown-ups, it can be a frightening time for our pets. Strange noises, loud bangs, lots of activity and unfamiliar faces can all lead to one stressed out pooch, so here are a few ways to plan ahead and keep them calm.
Halloween
While you might want your pet to join in all the Halloween fun, you need to think about their temperament. Are they likely to become upset or scared by strange costumes and the door constantly ringing? If so then you might want to take them off to somewhere else in the house where they will be happy and comfortable and away from the noise.
Perhaps you’ve been through Halloween with your dog before and rather than becoming anxious, they were too excited, in which case taking your dog for a long walk before the festivities begin may do wonders to keep them calm. If you do decide to take them for a walk then make sure you have a good collar or harness on them as there may already be lots of children around dressed up in costumes that could upset your pooch. Finally, don’t forget that sweets are for human teeth only and chocolate is very bad for dogs.
Bonfire night
Guy Fawkes Night as it also known is one that fills many pet owners with dread as we are reminded of our pet’s intense fear of fireworks.
The key here is preparation; ask around your neighbours if they are planning a display and ring your local council and check the internet to find details of nearby events. This way, if you need to, you can make alternative arrangements for your dog to stay with friends or family.
Some people suggest that you try to desensitise your dog to the noise of fireworks by getting them used to the sound. This could be by playing a CD of the sound of thunder or fireworks or even by playing action movies on your TV.
Others suggest that you take them for a walk during the day and give them a good exercise so that they are more docile and relaxed by the time fireworks begin, at which point you can keep them entertained with some reward based games.
Remember that dogs are often very sensitive and despite your best attempts you may not be able to keep them calm. If you think this may be the case then you should speak to your vet who may be able to help with temporary medication.
Click here to find out how to keep your dog safe during Christmas and New Year or for further tips on dog training, behaviour therapy and more please visit our articles page which is full of free advice.