The main reasons are as follows:
The loud, sudden sounds of fireworks can frighten dogs because their hearing is much more sensitive than ours. If a dog has had a traumatic experience with fireworks, they are likely to react with fear again. Uncertainty and confusion also matter: dogs do not understand what fireworks are or where the sounds come from, which can make them anxious.
To help dogs get through Sant Joan night as calmly as possible, consider these tips:
- Provide a quiet, safe place to hide, such as an interior room with doors and windows closed to minimise noise.
- Relaxing music or white noise can help mask the sound of fireworks.
- Stay calm and behave normally. Dogs often take their cue from their owners, and your calm behaviour helps them feel safer.
- Favourite toys or special treats can help keep your dog occupied.
- If your dog is extremely afraid, ask your veterinarian about a mild sedative or other medication to reduce anxiety.
- Before Sant Joan, you can try desensitisation using recordings of fireworks at a low volume, gradually increasing it while rewarding calm behaviour.
These tips can help reduce anxiety and make the night calmer. If they are not enough, contact a local professional for individual advice. Your trusted veterinarian can guide you.
For extreme fear, a veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety medication or sedatives. Give these medicines according to the veterinarian’s instructions. Pheromone diffusers, such as Adaptil, may help calm dogs by mimicking the natural pheromones nursing mothers produce to soothe their puppies. Some natural supplements, such as tryptophan or valerian, may help reduce anxiety more gently. Ensure your dog has a balanced diet and does not eat stimulating foods before Sant Joan night.
A local dog educator can also help you understand and address the situation. Work with your dog weeks or months beforehand, using recordings to gradually desensitise them while rewarding calm behaviour. Teach alternative responses to noise, such as going to a safe area or doing basic obedience exercises for rewards. Establish a relaxation routine with gentle walks, mental games and massages. Find a place where noise is less intense, such as an interior room, and use relaxing music or white noise. If your dog is crate-trained and comfortable in their carrier, it may provide a safe, welcoming refuge during fireworks.
Remember that our actions can increase or reduce fear. Avoid punishment, which may increase anxiety. Stay calm, spend time with your dog, speak gently and provide emotional support.
Combining these recommendations can help minimise your dog’s stress and anxiety during Sant Joan night.