Why Dogs Are Scared of Fireworks and How to Keep Them Safe This Bonfire Night

As the crisp chill of autumn air settles in, the vibrant leaves start to fall, and the evenings grow longer, many of us in the UK begin to anticipate the arrival of Bonfire Night. It's a time for gathering with friends, enjoying the warmth of a bonfire, and watching the sky light up with spectacular fireworks displays. But while we may enjoy the festivities, it's a different story for our furry companions. For dogs, this season can bring about a period of intense anxiety and fear, all thanks to those sudden, loud noises that accompany fireworks.

At Soho Poms, we know how much you cherish your furry friends, and we're here to help you understand why dogs find fireworks so distressing, what the loud noises can do to them, and most importantly, how to keep them safe and calm during this potentially stressful time.

Why Are Dogs Scared of Fireworks?

Unlike humans, dogs have incredibly sensitive hearing, which is both a blessing and a curse. While it allows them to hear sounds that we can't, it also means that the loud, unpredictable noise of fireworks can be overwhelming. Here's a closer look at why fireworks are so frightening for our dogs:

• Unpredictable Noises: Fireworks are unpredictable. They don't have a regular rhythm or pattern, and they can go off suddenly, creating a startle response in dogs. This unpredictability can cause a sense of loss of control and heightens their fear. Unlike a thunderstorm, which has some build-up, fireworks can occur at any time, making it hard for a dog to adapt.
• Loud and High-Pitched Sounds: Dogs hear sounds at a much higher frequency than humans. The sudden, high-pitched whistles and bangs of fireworks can be incredibly jarring. To a dog, the sound of fireworks can feel like an alarm bell ringing loudly in their ears, causing a strong flight-or-fight response.
• Lack of Understanding: Dogs don't know what fireworks are. They don’t understand that the loud bangs and flashes of light aren’t a threat. To them, the noise could signify danger, and their natural instinct is to seek safety or run away from what they perceive as a threat. This is why many dogs try to hide or escape during fireworks displays.

The Impact of Fireworks on Dogs

The noise of fireworks can do more than just startle your dog. For some, the stress caused by these loud noises can have a significant impact on their well-being. Here's how fireworks can affect dogs:

• Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Many dogs experience extreme anxiety during fireworks, which can manifest as trembling, panting, pacing, or even trying to escape. In severe cases, dogs may experience panic attacks, leading them to injure themselves while trying to flee or hide.
• Changes in Behavior: Dogs scared of fireworks may also become more clingy or display destructive behavior, such as chewing furniture, digging, or scratching at doors and windows in an attempt to escape. This behavior is their way of trying to cope with the stress and fear they are experiencing.
• Long-Term Trauma: For some dogs, the fear of fireworks can become a long-term issue. Even after Bonfire Night has passed, the memory of the loud noises can linger, causing them to become anxious at other loud noises or even when night falls, as they begin to associate darkness with fireworks.

How to Protect Your Dog During Bonfire Night

With Bonfire Night around the corner, it’s essential to start preparing early to ensure your dog feels safe and comfortable during this period. Here are some steps you can take to help your furry friend cope with the noise of fireworks:

• Create a Safe Space: Set up a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your dog can retreat to if they feel scared. This could be a room away from windows or a cozy spot under a table or in their crate. Make it inviting with their favorite toys, blankets, and perhaps a piece of your clothing that smells like you. This safe space can help them feel more secure when the fireworks start.
• Mask the Noise: Playing calming music or using a white noise machine can help drown out the sound of fireworks. Classical music, in particular, has been shown to have a calming effect on dogs. Keeping the curtains closed and turning up the volume on the TV can also help to reduce the impact of the loud bangs.
• Comfort, But Don’t Overdo It: It’s natural to want to comfort your dog when they’re scared, but be careful not to reinforce their fear. You can offer reassurance with gentle strokes and a calm voice, but try not to overdo it, as it can inadvertently signal that there’s something to be afraid of. Staying calm yourself will help your dog feel more at ease.
• Distract with Toys and Treats: Offering your dog a new toy or a long-lasting chew treat can help keep their mind occupied. Puzzle toys that require problem-solving can be especially useful, as they divert attention away from the noises outside.
• Consider Desensitization: If your dog has a history of being afraid of fireworks, you can start a desensitization process in the weeks leading up to Bonfire Night. This involves playing firework sounds at a low volume while engaging in positive activities, like playtime or treats, gradually increasing the volume over time. This method can help your dog become less sensitive to the noise.
• Speak to Your Vet: If your dog experiences severe anxiety during fireworks, it may be worth speaking to your vet. They might suggest anxiety medications or pheromone diffusers that can help keep your dog calm. There are also natural supplements, like calming chews, that can provide extra support during stressful times.
• Keep Them Indoors: During the nights when fireworks are expected, make sure to keep your dog indoors. Even if they have a secure garden, dogs in a state of panic may try to escape, putting them at risk of getting lost or injured. Ensure all doors, windows, and gates are securely closed, and take them for a walk earlier in the day when it's less likely for fireworks to be set off.

Helping Dogs Enjoy Autumn Safely

As we head into autumn, it’s a great time to enjoy the cooler weather and the beautiful changing scenery with our dogs. But as Bonfire Night approaches, let's take the time to ensure that our furry friends feel safe and secure amidst the excitement. Being proactive and preparing ahead of time can make a huge difference to their experience, turning what might have been a stressful night into just another cozy evening at home.

Remember, dogs rely on us to help them navigate the world around them. By understanding why fireworks are so frightening for them and taking steps to mitigate their fear, we can make sure that our dogs feel protected and loved through the ups and downs of this festive season.

So, this autumn, as you prepare for Bonfire Night, take a moment to think about how you can make the evening a little easier for your dog. With a bit of planning, patience, and care, we can ensure that everyone, humans and canines alike, can enjoy the season without worry. After all, a happy dog means a happy home, even when the sky is full of fireworks.