Ashley Smith’s Goldendoodle named Winnie is typically social and enjoys being around people, but her behavior changes drastically on New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July when loud fireworks scare her. The noise causes Winnie to hide in Smith’s closet for hours, displaying a timid and anxious side that contrasts with her usual bubbly demeanor.
Smith, 27, mentioned that Winnie transforms from everyone’s best friend to a different dog once the fireworks start. This reaction is a common issue for many dogs, as the loud explosions can trigger fear and stress, leading some to run away from home.
Veterinarians recommend that someone should stay with the dog to provide comfort and reassurance during fireworks. Creating a calm environment with soft music, affection, and calming pheromones can help ease the dog’s anxiety. Dogs have sensitive hearing, so the loud noises can be particularly distressing for them.
Some dogs, like Smith’s other pet, an 8-year-old Maltipoo named Piper, may not be bothered by fireworks. However, for dogs like Winnie, the sound can be overwhelming due to their acute sense of hearing and potential past traumas associated with loud noises.
Understanding your dog’s fear of fireworks and taking steps to comfort and protect them can make a significant difference in helping them cope during these noisy celebrations.
A canine owner in Milwaukee, speaking on the condition of anonymity, shared a concerning experience involving their pet Winnie on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. The owner, hereinafter referred to as Smith, relayed that Winnie’s reaction to the sound of fireworks is to run inside the house, seemingly seeking refuge from the explosive noises. This behavior, though understandable from a pet’s perspective, can pose risks as fearful dogs may inadvertently run off and become lost. Data obtained from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) indicates that approximately 1 in 5 lost pets can be attributed to instances of loud noises such as fireworks or thunderstorms.
In light of these concerns, expert advice is being offered to pet owners like Smith to help prevent such incidents. To begin with, it is strongly advised that all pets wear collars with identification tags containing up-to-date contact information, including the owner’s address and phone number. Furthermore, ensuring that a pet’s microchip information is current is emphasized as an additional measure in case of an escape.
Diana Bernal, an animal behavior specialist, suggests the use of calming supplements for dogs as a means to mitigate the anxiety caused by loud noises. These supplements are known to have a therapeutic effect, potentially aiding in keeping animals calm amidst external disturbances. Bernal highlights the targeted and concentrated dosage of such products, underscoring their effectiveness compared to calming treats which may yield less favorable results.
Additionally, Bernal recommends the utilization of thunder vests for dogs as another tool for providing comfort during stressful situations. These vests apply gentle pressure to a dog’s body, reportedly helping to alleviate anxiety and promote calmness. Bernal acknowledges that pet owners often prioritize their animals’ well-being, making it imperative to ensure their pets are comfortable and secure in times of distress.
Addressing Winnie’s response to calming supplements, Smith disclosed that the benefits observed in prior years were minimal. Consequently, Smith asserts that the most effective strategy is to remain by Winnie’s side during occasions of heightened noise, such as holiday celebrations involving fireworks. By offering personal companionship and support, Smith demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding Winnie’s well-being and minimizing her distress.
Reflecting on her dedication to Winnie’s welfare, Smith expresses a willingness to prioritize her pet’s needs by staying home during specific hours on key annual dates. This sacrifice is deemed essential by Smith to create a safe and nurturing environment for Winnie, especially in the face of potentially stressful circumstances.
In conclusion, for pet owners grappling with the challenge of keeping their dogs calm during noisy events like fireworks displays, the guidance provided by experts emphasizes the importance of proactive measures such as identifying pets, updating microchip information, and considering the use of calming supplements and thunder vests. These efforts, combined with personalized care and attention, can contribute to fostering a sense of security and comfort for beloved animal companions.
