Fear of fireworks is a very real and genuine fear that many dogs have. Our dogs are programmed to respond in three ways to fearful stimuli – FIGHT, FLIGHT OR FREEZE. All of these reactions are normal and how your dog reacts will depend on their personality and confidence level.

The most important thing to remember is don't force your dog to do anything that they are uncomfortable with.

Signs of fear can be:

• Vocalizing – barking, whining, howling
• Trembling – shivering or appearing to be cold
• Salivation/drooling/lip licking
• Showing more whites of their eyes/wide eyes
• Restlessness – pacing about unable to get comfy
• Toileting – very fearful dogs may toilet in the house (don't be angry they cannot help it)

1. Walk your dog before it gets dark on nights when fireworks are expected

1. Close curtains, put on music or TV in every room you can to drown out the noise

1. Don't force your dog to be somewhere they don't want to be – let them chose their safe space

1. It's OK to reassure them and cuddle them but don't force an interaction if they are uncomfortable

1. If your dog chooses to hide in what they consider a safe place let them (even if they are trembling)

1. Don't force your dog outside to toilet when fireworks are going off

1. Thunder shirts can help although they can also become a trigger for a fearful event about to happen. Some people do find these shirts help their dog

1. Drugs/medication: speak to your vet but avoid a sedative if possible (a sedative means your dog may not be able to move/get to their safe place so they feel afraid but can't do anything to alleviate their fear). An anti-anxiety medication may be a better solution

1. Don't take them to a firework display in the hope they will just get used to it – they won't and you will likely cause them great distress.