Ah, firework season…most dogs are not fans. Below are some helpful tips to make it as comfortable as you can for your dog.

As summer firework season approaches make sure your dog’s collar ID and microchip registration are up to date.

When you know a firework display is scheduled nearby, or you see your neighbors setting up for a display, consider asking a friend if you can bring your dog over for an evening chat or movie – unless your dog finds trips even more stressful. Where I live, it’s hit or miss. Some years are quiet & other years, not so much.

If your dog prefers to stay home, set up a quiet safe space in your home where your dog is comfortable and the sound of fireworks is muffled, like a finished basement or an internal room like a walk-in closet. Ours would be in our family room. Spend time with your dog there, with toys and treats, well before fireworks season begins. I like to make sure the TV is on so there is some background noise that our pets are used to.

Did you know you can help desensitize your dog by playing a recording of fireworks? Start at a very low level for short periods, multiple times a day, and rewarding calm behavior with treats. If your dog is extremely fearful of noises, before taking this step, think about consulting an experienced dog behaviorist for expert guidance.

You can also try turning on the TV, music, or white noise like a fan, to provide a familiar, alternate sound to block-out the noise of fireworks on the night-of. Make sure whatever you use is already familiar to your dog – even fans can be anxiety-causing if they are fired up without warning. Again, having the TV on has been so helpful as that has been a regular sound.

Worried about fireworks freaking your dog out? A happily tired dog is a more relaxed dog. Exercise your pup with fun play or a long walk so they are ready to nap when night falls. Make sure their collar or harness is slip-proof, because some people celebrate with firecrackers and other noisemakers before darkness falls.

Does your dog freak at loud noises? Are you worried about firework season? I know it’s hard not to be upset when you see your dog distressed, especially when you know they are safe. However, if you frantically console them, or make angry comments about inconsiderate neighbors, your distress or anger can strengthen your dog’s belief that something is wrong. You can certainly sooth your dog, but do so in a calm, reassuring, and positive manner. When my dog Sadie was upset, I liked to have her stretch out on the couch with us and give her extra scritches behind the ears.

Instead, try gently distracting your dog. Turn those fireworks into background chatter by engaging in normal fun activities like playing with a toy, running through training exercises, or inviting your dog on the couch for a movie night. But don’t pull your dog out from a safe space they have chosen and force your dog to play if they would rather hide.

Is your dog’s quality of life suffering whenever they hear fireworks, or are they so panicked they could injure themselves, or you, while trying to escape? Dog trainers, dog behaviorists, veterinarians, and veterinary behaviorists can offer a range of options from counter-conditioning to medication.