By Jo Mears

CREATE space and safe areas for your dog.Here are some things you can do if your dog does become agitated or nervous during the fireworks:•

Make sure they have something to do, a tasty bone or a stuffed kong.• Try to distract away from the noise of the fireworks, have the TV up a little louder or a radio on.• Reassurance, happy talking and positive associations.• Make sure they have somewhere they feel safe, a certain place or room ect. • Try using some of the natural remedies that are on the market.DO:Make a safe den for your dog to retreat to if he or she feels scared.

Alternatively, let your dog take refuge under furniture and include an old, unwashed piece of clothing like a woolly jumper so that your dog can smell your scent and feel comfortable.Distract your dog from the noise by having the TV or the radio switched on.Try to act and behave as normal, as your dog will pick up on any odd behaviour. Remain calm, happy and cheerful as this will send positive signals to your dog.

Reward calm behaviour with dog treats or playing with toys of interest.Consult your vet if your dog has any health problems or is taking any medication before giving remedies to help him cope with fireworks night, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.Feed your dog a while before you expect any disturbances, as once the fireworks start your dog may be too anxious to eat.Walk your dog before dusk. It may be some time before it’s safe to venture outside again for your dog to relieve himself.Make sure you shut all doors and windows in your home and don’t forget to draw the curtains.

This will block out any scary flashes of light and reduce the noise level of fireworks. Don’t forget to block off cat flaps to stop dogs (and cats) escaping.Shut your dog safely inside a room before opening the front door.Your dog might choose to hide under the bed; if he or she comes to you for comfort, make sure that you give it to him/her. Ignoring your dog would only make things worse as he or she wouldn’t understand your withdrawal from them.

The use of a thunder shirt or jacket have proved successful or use a towel to wrap around your dog to make him/her feel safe and secure.

DON’T:Take your dog to a firework display, even if your dog does not bark or whimper, don’t assume he or she is happy. (Excessive yawning and panting can indicate that your dog is stressed) Tie your dog up outside while fireworks are being let off.

Assume your garden is escape proof. If your dog needs to go out keep him on a lead just in case.Leave your dog on his own or in a separate room from you.Try to force your dog to face his fears – he’ll just become more frightened.Forget to top up the water bowl.

Anxious dogs pant more and get thirsty.Change routines more than necessary, as this can be stressful for some dogs.Try and tempt him out if he does retreat, as this may cause more stress.Tell your dog off, this will only make your pet more distressed.

It is important to remember that it is natural for a dog to be scared of loud noises and unfamiliar sights and sounds.Hope this information helps.By Jo Mears