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Co-founder of 1 Dog at a Time Rescue, Jayne with Fozzy on a firework-free day

 

In the run-up to and on Bonfire Night we take Fozzy for a walk or out in the garden to go to the toilet during daylight hours only.  He always has a collar and tag (with our phone number on) and is on a lead just in case the worst happens and he bolts in panic.

Colorful pyrotechnics display

If we have to go out when there are likely to be fireworks, then we ask a friend to ‘Fozzy sit’.

Some of our adopters are quite inventive when it comes to calming their dogs, like Kelsey who made a den under a table for Rudi to help him feel safe and secure.  For added security maybe include an item of your old clothing.

 

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Used as a bait dog in Romania, thankfully there isn’t much that Rudy has to fear now thanks to his wonderful adopters – except maybe fireworks.
fireworks rudi
It’s a good idea to create a den where they can feel safe and secure

 

Once the dogs have found somewhere safe, try not to disturb them unless, of course, they come to you for comfort and reassurance.

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Like many Romanian dogs, Ned had a hard life on his own on the streets. Today, in times of stress, his adopters are always there for cuddles on the sofa.
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Ned is absolutely terrified of fireworks.

 

Other tips to consider include:

Closing the curtains

Turning up the radio or the TV to muffle the sound of the fireworks

All our Romanian rescue dogs arrive in the UK with their ‘own’ classical music that they have learnt to associate with sleep and relaxation during their time at Happy Tails, our rescue centre in Bistrita.   As soon as they hear the music it’s like hitting their snooze button and they immediately relax or fall asleep.  Might be stretching it though to switch off their fear button on Bonfire Night.

Please check that all the windows and doors are closed – don’t forget the cat flap once your cat is indoors of course.

Pippa, our ‘go-to lady’ for natural remedies, recommends Phosphorous 30c that you can buy from Holland & Barrett or Boots.

We have also had positive feedback about Zylkene herbal tablets which apparently are good for helping the dogs de-stress.

The ultimate in drug-free, natural treatments are Thundershirts that fit snugly on the dogs to apply pressure in all the right places, rather like swaddling on a baby, to keep the dogs calm.

Harry modelling the latest in Thundershirt design wear.

Try and distract them with a treat like a Kong filled with something delicious.

Don’t let your dog go out to the toilet until you know the fireworks have stopped.  If they are too distressed to go out then it’s probably best to wait until the morning.

Don’t forget to keep the water bowl topped up as they might get thirsty if they’re panting a lot.

And finally, above all else, keep calm and quiet yourself to send positive signals to your dog.

Wishing you and your dogs a safe Bonfire Night from everyone at 1 Dog at a Time Rescue.

Have a read of our updated blog on fireworks by CLICKING HERE.

 Please click here to contact us if you would like more information on 1 Dog At A Time Rescue UK.