Barking Up The Wrong Tree

Dogs on Bonfire Night

Many dogs have an innate fear when it comes to Bonfire Night and so it is important to keep them indoors and help them as much as possible.

In some areas, the fireworks can begin a week or so before the actual Bonfire Night and continue for a week or so afterwards too.  I’m quite lucky because my shih tzu isn’t bothered at all.  In fact, last year she was quite content to sit on the doorstep with me and watch our neighbour’s fireworks go off, but I think she’s one of a kind like that.

If your dog suffers from a real fear at this time of year, there are several things you can try.  You can buy mild sedatives from pet shops such as calming tablets, or visit your vet for something a little stronger.  Sometimes, just sitting in with them and turning up the television will work, or if they’re really easy to ‘buy off’ then try giving them a meaty bone or pigs ear or something.  There are also de-sensitisation CD’s you can buy, although I’ve never known anyone to try them so not sure if they work or not.