Does your dog have a fear of fireworks?

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If your dog is terrified of fireworks, do take a few minutes to read an excellent article by Lizi Angel of Canine Mind.

Lizi, a canine dog behaviour psychologist, has kindly given Oldies Club permission to share this information here to help those of us with dogs who are scared of fireworks, gunshot, thunder etc.

Lizi says:

Fear of loud and sudden noise is common in dogs. This type of fear is what is known as a ‘somatic’ response, which means that a dog does not think about, nor decide, to be afraid. The somatic response to fear produces symptoms such as trembling, rapid and shallow panting, hyper (excess) salivation, and raised heart rate and blood pressure.

The full article can be read on Lizi’s blog here .

Visit the above link to read Lizi’s full list of DOs and DON’Ts for various suggestions of  how to  help your pets through fireworks season, including drug-free remedies, body wraps/t-shirts, massage and T-Touch.

Owners are often told not to reassure their dogs but, according to Lizi:

… DON’T ignore your dog if it comes to you. Despite the all too common advice to ignore a dog during fear-inducing events, there is in fact absolutely NO evidence that reassuring a fearful dog encourages or reinforces fearful behaviour. Be happy that your dog views you as its safe haven and give it some constructive touch such as ear T-Touch or gentle but firm massage to the head, neck, shoulders and back.

Rescue dog wearing his Thundershirt
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