If you’ve only just realised your puppy is scared of noises or despite all your hard work your dog might still be scared if the sounds are too loud or too close, here are a few tips
How can it be October already?
Scary where time goes. And only 12 Saturdays to Christmas….
But before then, we’ve got all sorts of stuff. Strictly is underway, nights are drawing in and at the end of this month we’ve got Halloween with what appears to me to be more and more fireworks used in celebration.
Fireworks and other loud bangs can panic pups
I’ve heard several horror stories from owners. One owner I’ll call Dave spent hours searching for his Border Collie when she was spooked by an unexpected noise when out walking. She panicked and bolted.
Dave spent all night and the next day searching and calling her. He feared she might never return, and might have been run over, or fallen and got injured – there’s no end to the nightmare scenarios you imagine in those circumstances.
Finally, two days later, his dog arrived home, hungry, cold and afraid but otherwise uninjured.
A few tips for you to help your dog
If you’ve been on the ball, I talked in July about how to help your dog prepare to cope with loud bags and pops. But if you missed it, or despite all your hard work your dog might still be scared if the noises are too loud or too close, here are a few tips.
- If you know there are likely to be fireworks or other loud noises, walk your dog early, while it’s still light
- As it gets dark, make sure all pets are safely inside, draw your curtains and play music or have the TV on. PDSA have a Pet Playlist you can download and use
- Lock your doors and any cat or dog flaps
- Stay with your dog, don’t leave them alone
- Give them a den or safe place to hide if they want
- Give them plenty of reassurance and treats, if they will take them
- Stick to your normal routine and act as normal as possible
- Ask your vet about possible medication you might use – though this must be given before the noises start to have any effect and that can be difficult to plan
I shall be following many of these points with Gus. Although he now copes pretty well with gunshots and other loud bangs, if they are too loud or too close he will react, so I will be prepared.
Please get in touch if you need help with your fearful dog. There’s little more heart-rending than seeing your pet in a panic.
And if you want to strengthen (or create) a great recall, which can reduce the risk of your pet running off, why not join our Reliable Recall Masterclass, running over two sessions, on 16th and 30th October in our safe, fenced arena.
Keep training and stay safe,
Carol
