If you are going to any fireworks displays to celebrate Canada Day, the London Humane Society has a simple request -- leave Rover at home.
The Humane Society is asking London dog owners to refrain from taking their pets to fireworks displays out of concern for the well-being of their sensitive ears.
“We know that dogs have acute hearing. They hear frequencies that are much higher and lower than humans do,” said Judy Foster, executive director of London Humane Society. “So even dogs that are safe at home will still hear fireworks from across town.”
The Humane Society said exposure to loud and sudden noises like fireworks can cause dogs to develop noise phobias, a "persistent, excessive and irrational fear response."
For dog owners who live near here fireworks will be set off, the Humane Society has some tips for how to help keep dogs calm during the barrage of sound.
- Speak calmly and cheerfully to your dog without coddling him. Dogs are more likely to be anxious if their owners are acting as though something is wrong.
- Keep your dog inside during fireworks. It’s never a good idea to bring dogs to a firework display; they may pull out of their collars to escape.
- Close blinds or curtains, or place a blanket over your dog’s crate to block out flashes of light from fireworks.
- Keep windows and doors closed to prevent a panicked escape.
- Offer your dog a fun distraction, such as a Kong toy filled with peanut butter (freeze in advance for a cool and extra challenging treat).
- Take your dog for a walk before dusk rolls in. Your dog is more likely to relax after his energy has been expelled.
- Some dogs feel less anxious while wearing a Thundershirt—a pressure wrap believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Consult a veterinarian if you think your dog would benefit from anxiety medication.
- Make sure your dog’s identification is updated in case he does get out.
