For many dogs, fireworks are terrifying. The loud noises, the house shaking, and the bright lights can make your dog feel like they’re under attack or that the world is ending.
Seeing your dog traumatized and not knowing how to help is heartbreaking. While fireworks will likely still be scary for your dog, you can take steps to make the experience less traumatic.
*Please note: I am not a veterinarian or an expert. I am sharing from my personal experiences and from what I have learned through reading and hearing others experiences.
Preparing Your Dog for Fireworks
1. Use CBD Oil or Treats Start giving your dog CBD oil or treats a couple of days before the fireworks begin. This allows the CBD to build up in their system and work more effectively.
- One week before: If this is your first time giving your dog CBD, give them the lowest recommended dose for their weight, once in the morning and once in the evening one week before. Administer during quiet times to prevent their body from metabolizing the CBD too quickly.
- Watch for effects: Observe how the CBD affects your dog. If they appear calmer, stick with this dose. If not, you may need to increase the dose.
- Day before fireworks: Give your dog the dosage that you found works best for them, once in the morning and again in the evening to start building it up in their system.
- Day of the fireworks: About an hour before the fireworks, give your dog a dose of CBD. For dogs already calm with the initial dose, increase it slightly. For those needing more, use the higher end of the recommended range.
We offer CBD oil and treats in-store at The Crazy Dog Mom. Email us to learn more about our products.
*Please note: If you live in an area that lights off fireworks multiple days you may need to give your dog CBD each day.
2. Prepare a Calm Space Create a safe and quiet space for your dog away from windows and loud noises. Use a sound machine, box fan, or radio to help drown out the booms. Make the area cozy with your dog’s bed, favorite blankets, and items with your scent, like clothing or bed sheets. Diffuse lavender essential oil for added calmness.
3. Engage with Treat-Filled Toys If your dog loves food, prepare treat-filled toys, lick mats, and snuffle toys. Freeze them to make them last longer.
4. Introduce the Space Early Take your dog to the safe space an hour before the fireworks start. Give them their final CBD dose and hang out with them. This helps them adjust to the new environment. Offer treat-filled toys before the fireworks begin so they are already occupied when they do begin.
5. Consider Thunder Jackets or Wraps Some dogs find comfort in thunder jackets or wraps. Test this beforehand to see if it helps your dog feel calmer. Your dog will need time to get used to wearing it.
6. Exercise Plan to exercise your dog a few hours before dusk to tire out your dog. Opt for indoor exercises if the temperatures are high where you are.
7. Skip mealtime Don't feed your dog their evening meal. You'll want them to be hungry when it gets closer to fireworks time so they are more likely to focus on their treat/food filled toys.
Check out our collection of dog enrichment toys to keep your dog occupied
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| Puzzle n' Play Mushroom | Snail Snuffle Toy | Honeycomb Lick Mat |
What to Do During Fireworks
1. Comfort Your Dog If you can’t be with your dog, have someone stay with them to provide comfort and ensure they don’t hurt themselves.
2. Maintain a Calm Environment Keep your dog in the prepared safe space. Use the sound machine, fan, or radio, and ensure they have their bed, blankets, and scented items.
3. Offer Distractions Continue offering treat-filled toys and engage with your dog if they are receptive. This can help divert their attention from the fireworks.
4. Monitor for Stress Watch for signs of stress and adjust your approach as needed. If your dog is extremely anxious, try additional calming methods like gentle petting or soft talking.
By preparing ahead of time and creating a comforting environment, you can help your dog feel more secure during fireworks. Your efforts can make a big difference in reducing their stress and ensuring a safer, calmer experience.
These treats are perfect for hiding in snuffle toys or topping lick mats with.
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| Beef Liver | Dog Treat Sample Pack | Turkey Pumpkin Bites |