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Writer's picturePennie Clayton

The Firework Chronicles - Part 1

It is hard to think as we enjoy the sun and bright skies that we are moving towards one of the most difficult times of the year for our dogs-the Autumn is creeping up and with it there is some big stuff on the horizon that needs our consideration


Many dogs are firework phobic-and this needs a lot of thought and planning. September is when we need to think about the steps needed to alleviate the distress around the seemingly exploding skies which happen at the beginning of November and generally continue into January

The first thing to recognise is that dogs that are very phobic often have pain issues. These can remain “hidden” until storms or people start to let off fireworks


Pain is a difficult thing to manage.


Many dog guardians refuse to believe their dog is in pain-but the presence of sound sensitivity is a give- away.


Associations build up very quickly-a loud bang will often make us jump-and as this happens our bodies tense up-if pain is present it causes spasms in areas where pain is present. This happens with humans and dogs.

However sceptical you may be-please believe your dog-we have been discussing just this very subject this week


I took a day off to go to the beach yesterday and as people moved past me with their dogs I can say that 50% of those dogs were moving incorrectly.

If a dog is in pain, they often pace rather than walk, pain causes the body to compensate and tension is present as they move.

Movement is distorted and becomes undetectable because it looks has become "normal"


Pain is the most common reason why dogs are terrified during fireworks.


Dogs are very stoic and it can be hard to see any noticeable differences-this is when behaviour change is not visible to any degree -that is until the fireworks begin.


If you know your dog had a bad time last year then please do take action. Take your dog to the vet, explain your concerns and even if they are unable to diagnose pain or discomfort (and we can talk about this on another day) at the very least ask for medication to help during the fireworks. The most recent addition to support dogs with firework phobia is Sileo.


There are still “trainers” that advocate ignoring a dogs terror of fireworks and to never cuddle or reassure the dog when they are scared -please do ignore their stupid advice and support your dog.

Last year I wrote an entire course about how to help your dog over and through firework season, which I am presently I will put links up once it is revised

Believe what your dog is trying to tell you - pain hides in plain sight


Have you read my book? I covers the entire year from a dogs perspective

" A Dog For All Seasons " is available on Amazon https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dog-All-Seasons-healthy-throughout/dp/B0C2RVJLQH



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