Helping Your Pets Cope with Fireworks: Try These Tips, Including Taiko Drumming!

Bonfire Night can be overwhelming for pets, but with a few unique techniques, you can help ease their anxiety. Here’s a mix of traditional tips and some creative ones we’ve found helpful.

1. Try Listening to Taiko Drumming

The low, rhythmic sounds of taiko drums help mask the unpredictable noises of fireworks. This “white noise” effect is calming and provides a steady beat for your pet to focus on.

2. Create a Balloon Distraction

If your dog is like our Lab—terrified of fireworks but thrilled by the sound of popping balloons—throw some balloons into the room. For dogs who love the excitement, this can provide a playful distraction during big displays, though it’s less effective for stray fireworks.

3. Use Natural Calming Aids

Catnip and valerian are two natural options that can take the edge off for pets. Catnip works differently for dogs than cats and provides a relaxing effect like valerian root. Be sure to try these in small doses first to gauge your pet’s reaction.

4. Give Them a Tiring Day Out

Before the fireworks start, take your dog for an active outing, like a beach walk or hike. Exercise helps reduce anxiety and makes pets more likely to settle down in the evening.

5. Provide High-Value Chews

Keep their focus with something special. Raw bones or a favourite chew toy can keep dogs engaged and provide comfort. Chewing has a calming effect for many pets, making it a great go-to during noisy events.

6. Set Up a Cosy Den

Create a “safe zone” in a quiet area with blankets, toys, and some of your clothes for a comforting scent. Add background noise like the taiko drums or even white noise machines.

With a combination of these techniques, you’ll hopefully find a solution that works well for your furry friend, however sometimes the fireworks are just a bit too loud, or a bit too close. A bit like at our house last night, our neighbours fireworks were going off above our garden which the dogs were extremely distressed about. In this instance, the only solution that was quick and easy was to get the dogs out in the car and go for a drive in the country. By the time we got back the fireworks had stopped and the dogs were calm.

Today we've tried a different approach and have been to the beach for just over an hour, they're back home with raw bones as a distraction, so far its working well! Wishing you and your pets a calm and cosy Bonfire Night!