In the third week of Riley’s run up to firework’s Natalie bought a lickimat for her to use in her crate with some light cream cheese. This works two fold as she loves cheese, so this will increase the value of her crate to her, also licking/chewing helps to calm dogs. She also put in to place all the things she mentioned last week.

Fire works did in fact come early and although Riley put her usual sad face on, she went into her crate!…… And then came out again. She settled down the side of the sofa (using her avoidance technique) but this shows progress and lets hope with further hard work Riley may be inclined to use her crate for longer over the New Year Fireworks. Overall with all the additional support Natalie felt Riley did cope better this year, her fear seemed to last less long and she recovered more quickly.

If you missed how to help set up a den and support your pet during the firework season then now is the time to give it a go for New Year. 

Here are a few tips for the nights themselves too:

• Close the curtains, keep the doors locked
• Be a friend for them and don’t leave them
• Remain calm
• Ensure your dog is kept on the lead during walks in case they are unexpectedly spooked by these noises and run away/into traffic.
• Try not to envelop your dog but give them a hand to sniff if they want contact
• Encourage existing coping strategies if they are working for them
• Encourage the use of a den that they can have 24/7 access to
• Use a hormonal based plug in/collar
• A nutraceutical (dietary supplement) can be used
• If your dog is really stressed about fireworks please seek veterinary advice as they maybe a suitable medication that can help until a treatment plan can be implemented.