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*Ignore fearful behaviour, such as panting, shaking and whining. Dogs may pick
up on their owner’s anxiety which could make the problem worse. Do not fuss
your dog or try to reassure when he appears scared since this can signal that
the response is appropriate. It is best to either ignore any fearful behaviour
that occurs or better still be positively jolly at these times, to signal that
there is nothing to be worried about.

* Provide your dog with distractions such as new toys and chews.
*Close the curtains and switch on the TV or radio to mask the noise.
*Do not leave your dog alone while fireworks are going off, they will be calmer
with a familiar person at home.

*Do not punish your dog as this will only make them more distressed.

Treatments:

A pheromone plug-in placed nearby can also help devices such as Adaptil will
release natural calming chemicals that help to reassure your dog are now
available commercially. These chemicals are naturally produced by dogs in
certain situations and are known as pheromones. If you plug in a device in your
dog’s favourite resting place in a blacked out room and leave it on the whole
time, you may find that this helps your dog cope through the firework season,
but ideally start it a few months before firework season. They will probably
continue to react to the noise by stopping what he is doing when the noise is
heard but should not panic.

Medications:

There are several medications and herbal remedies available to help your pet
during this season. If your pet has needed these before, or if you feel that your
pet would benefit please make an appointment with a vet.

Leigh Sobye BVSc MRCVS

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