Are you ready for the loudest night of the year?

Remember remember the 5^th of November!

With Bonfire night fast approaching Jerry Green Dog Rescue have some tips and advice to share with you on how you can try and keep your dog calm and settled during the celebrations.

Shelley Wilks, Deputy chief Executive for the rescue says: “We know that many dogs are not bothered by the fireworks and during the numerous displays throughout the year those days will go by like any other. Whereas for some dogs, it is quite a different story. Many are terrified by the loud bangs and flashing lights, and it can be a traumatic experience.

“It may be a time of year you dread with your furry companion, but there are things you can do in preparation and during the night to make it easier on you both to cope with.

“We’re also aware that throughout lockdown, many people have welcomed new furry friends into their home who may have never heard fireworks before, so now is the time to prepare them for this new experience.”

Jerry Green’s tips on what you can do in advance:

Starting now, you can begin acclimatising your dog to firework sounds. There are CDs and downloads available of generic firework/bonfire noise that you can use. You can also check this video out on YouTube: Firework sounds.

Training should begin as far in advance as possible and is an ongoing process. Don’t expect success overnight: just like humans, working with phobias takes time!

Keep your furry friend calm with these handy tricks

Jerry Green’s tips on what you can do on the day:

1. Create a safe space for your dog to relax– somewhere where they can retreat to away from the noise

2. Be on hand to provide comfort and reassurance– try to keep them as calm as possible

3. Take walks in the day before it gets dark– this will be a quieter and less stressful for them

4. Make your own noise– play their favourite music or have the TV on to distract them from the noise outside

5. Close your windows and curtains– shut out the flashes and muffle the noise

6. Talk to your neighbours and event venues in your area– ask them if they’re having fireworks so you can be prepared on the night they do

7. Provide lots of drinking water– nervous dogs are likely to pant more and become thirsty

8. Keep them in a secure room when answering the door– this means they won’t be able to suddenly escape out of the door

9. Provide a long lasting tasty treat– treats like a filled Kong can keep them distracted and their mind busy

10. Use relaxing aromas in your home– scents like Lavender and Chamomile can aid relaxation. There are also calming medications/remedies available that you can purchase through your vets. Always make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and seek advice from a vet before using any product

11. Use tried and tested pheromone therapy – such as Adaptil, which has been proven to reduce anxiety during thunder storms. Always make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and seek advice from a vet before using any product

Check out some more of their holiday tips on their Tips and Advice page.