Fireworks and your dog: a Liverpool owner's guide

This page shares general tips for owners. It is not veterinary advice. If you're worried about your dog's anxiety or health, speak to your vet.

Fireworks season can be a hard few weeks for lots of dogs. Here's how to plan ahead so you and your dog get through it as calmly as possible.

1. Why fireworks can be hard for dogs

Fireworks are loud, sudden and unpredictable, and they often go on for weeks either side of Bonfire Night. Some dogs barely notice them. Others pant, pace, shake, hide or try to escape. Every dog is different, so watch how yours reacts and plan around them.

2. Plan ahead with your vet

If your dog gets anxious with loud noises, talk to your vet well before the bangs start, not the night before. They can talk through options that suit your dog. Find a practice near you on our Liverpool vets page.

3. Check microchip and ID

A frightened dog can bolt. Make sure your dog's microchip details are up to date with your current address and phone number, and that they wear a collar with an ID tag.

4. Walk before dark

Get the main walk done in daylight, and keep your dog on the lead during fireworks season, even if they're usually fine off lead. A well-fitted harness helps too. Looking for a good daytime walk? See our dog walks and parks in Liverpool.

5. Build a safe den

Set up a cosy, quiet spot indoors a few days early: their bed, blankets and a favourite toy, somewhere away from windows. Let your dog choose where to hide and don't pull them out.

6. On the night

• Feed and let your dog out to the toilet before it gets dark.
• Close curtains, windows and doors, and keep outside doors shut.
• Put the telly or radio on to soften the bangs.
• Stay calm and act normally. It's fine to comfort your dog if they come to you.
• Never tell your dog off for being scared.
• Don't leave your dog home alone if you can avoid it.

7. If your dog gets out

Contact your microchip database to report them missing, ring local vets, and tell your neighbours. Up-to-date chip details make all the difference.

8. Dogs with health conditions

Stress can affect some conditions. If your dog has a health condition, ask your vet whether you need to do anything differently around fireworks. Read Cora's story for one owner's experience.

Where to find more information

Your own vet is the best source of advice for your dog.

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