08/08/2026
If your dog struggles with fireworks every year, don't wait until the week before the next ones to start helping them.
We've reached the final day of our Summer Fireworks Series.
We've talked about preparing before the fireworks, supporting your dog while they're happening, recognising the quieter signs of stress, understanding recovery, and avoiding some of the things we may do with the very best intentions.
But there's one thing I'd really like you to take away from this series.
Your dog's response to fireworks isn't necessarily something you simply have to accept every year.
Whether your dog experiences fireworks during summer fiestas, 4th July celebrations, Bonfire Night on 5th November, New Year's Eve, local festivals or other celebrations around the world, the same principle applies:
Training and preparation need to happen when your dog is calm.
You can't begin desensitisation and conditioning the day before the fireworks.
Once your dog has recovered and returned to their normal baseline, you can begin gradually working on changing their emotional response to sounds.
This takes time.
It needs to happen at a level your dog can cope with, creating positive associations and gradually building their confidence.
It may also be possible to introduce and condition additional tools that could help your individual dog, such as a body wrap, snood or other equipment.
But these things need to be introduced before they're needed.
A dog shouldn't experience a new piece of equipment for the first time when they're already frightened.
And remember that every dog is different.
What helps one dog may not help another.
That's why observing your dog matters so much.
The dog knows what they need.
Our job is to observe, listen and provide it wherever we can.
And if your dog continues to struggle with fireworks or other loud noises, don't feel that you simply have to get through it every year.
Speak to your vet or seek support from a qualified canine behaviourist. Sometimes a dog needs a more individualised approach, and that's okay.
Before — reduce the stress load and prepare where you can.
During — provide safety, support and choice.
After — respect that recovery can take time.
Long-term — build confidence and resilience when your dog is calm enough to learn.
Thank you for following this series. 💚
