Start preparing your dog for thunderstorms and fireworks now

    

Crash! Bang! Boom! Summer can be a challenging time for dogs who are afraid of fireworks and thunderstorms. The good news is there are steps you can take in advance of the rumbly season to help your dog stay content and chill all summer long!

 

• Create a sanctuary. Create a cozy haven where your dog can retreat and feel safe and secure from the commotion outdoors. Pick an area where your dog likes to hang out and that will also block out the sights and sounds of thunderstorms or fireworks. Try out different areas, like a walk-in closet or a room with blackout curtains. Include a comfy bed and favorite toys, and make it extra awesome with playtime or treats.
• Explore calming supplements and aids. Natural supplements or pheromone-based solutions designed to lessen anxiety can work wonders for dogs. While supplements like Solliquin^® or Anxitane^® may be helpful for dogs with very mild symptoms, they are not likely to help dogs with moderate to severe firework distress. 
• Visit your veterinarian as soon as possible. If your dog is severely distressed by the noise of fireworks or thunder, seek guidance from your veterinarian. They can offer tailored strategies and, if needed, prescribe anti-anxiety medications.

Day-of support

• Give supplements or medications early in the day. Start any calming supplements or anti-anxiety medications before the crashes and bangs begin. Starting early may help relax your dog and reduce their reactivity. 
• Guide your dog to their sanctuary. With repetition, your dog will learn to seek out their happy place on their own.
• Mask the sounds from outside. Fill their space with calming music, turn on a fan and close all the windows and doors in the house to help block the booms. By creating a quiet and well insulated (sound proof) space, this white noise can be very helpful for dogs. Additionally, products such as a Thundershirt or dog earmuffs can also aid our pet’s anxiety.
• Provide plenty of distraction. Tempt your dog with a new toy or treat-stuffed puzzles to divert their attention.
• Keep calm and carry on. While it’s only natural to want to soothe your dog when they’re distressed, excessive comfort may reward your dog’s behavior or (even worse!) validate their fears. Instead, offer gentle reassurance and continue with your routine as usual.

Browse our veterinarian-approved selection of calming supplements for dogs here. >>

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