Fireworks
15 December 2023
The period of fireworks can be distressing for pets, causing stress and overwhelming feelings. Here are some management tips to help, although they are not a cure, they can prevent the exacerbation of behaviour.
Home Preparation:
- Ensure your dog's safety by using baby gates or keeping doors closed to prevent them from escaping.
- If expecting trick-or-treaters, use a long lead for your dog or keep the door shut to avoid frustration or feeling trapped.
- Check your garden's fence panels for damage, especially after a storm, to prevent your dog from getting out.
- Equip your dog with a collar displaying your name and contact number. Ensure chip details are up-to-date.
Bonfire Nights:
- Dogs may not be suitable companions for events like bonfire nights due to potential hazards.
- If going out, consider hiring a pet sitter for your dog's safety.
Day/Near the Event:
- Take your dog for a walk earlier in the day to minimise exposure to spooky sights and sounds.
- Recognise that each dog has a unique temperament; what one can handle, another may not.
- For very anxious dogs, consult your vet
- Create hiding spots behind the sofa, under blankets, or in a crate (without closing it) for a sense of security.
- Introduce music early to muffle sounds, as sudden music can become a predictive cue.
Please note that studies suggest a link between pain and sound sensitivity, so ruling this out with your vet is important. If your pet exhibits intense fear, seeks further guidance from your vet if they are highly sound-sensitive.
Is your dog regularly barking and lunging at other dogs on a walk? There could be a number of reasons this occurs including frustration at not being able to access a dog or if they are worried and saying move away
Reasons behind repetitive behaviour in dogs such as licking of surfaces can be due to a host of reasons. As a behaviourist it is my job to work out why it’s occuring!
Everyone Has an Opinion, But Confidence Doesn't Always Mean Competence
Information on mounting/humping
This is when a dog ingests non - food items such as rocks, stones, dirt, fabric.
A dog barking at night can feel frustrating and annoying – you know they need sleep and you need it too.
Here is some information about aggression.
If your dog barks, lunges, growls, or becomes overwhelmed around other dogs, people, or situations, you're not alone. Reactivity is one of the most common challenges dog owners face, and understanding why it happens is the first step towards helping your dog feel calmer and more confident.
Initia l meetings are like first impressions.= they count. Make sure the interaction is away from the house and in a neutral space. When they initially see each other have a treat ready to give but allow them to just watch each other too. Having toys on the floor (if your older dog does not guard can help take the social pressure off. Walking parallel with each other with both dogs on lead can help reduce frustration. If they engage in play, it should be mirrored and matched - always avoid any teeth on body parts. Coming home Dogs shouldn't be right next to each other on the way home. Just like we like personal space on a tube dogs's want this too! Here are some ideas that I got from Canine Arthritis Management for older dogs: If there is a back seat cover for mud an anti not slippy cover is important. Bolsters and cushions can help prevent moving around Harnesses to keep still when you go around any roundabouts can help too. Ramps and steps to get out of the car to prevent lots of pressure on joints ie caravan steps can help too At home Having a safe space for your older dog that your puppy cannot access is key. Feeding times can be over exciting. Just like, us all, older dogs need some tlc. Here are some home adaptations that can help:
Often people describe resource guarding and possessiveness over items when a dog has snapped or bitten.
