If, like me, you have a dog that is totally terrified at this time of year then firstly I whole heartedly sympathise with you. It's a frightening time for our pets and sometimes whatever you try simply doesn't seem to make a difference.

My dog came from rescue and although a Springer Spaniel (a gun dog no less), she is one of the most anxious dogs I've ever come across when it comes to loud noises, including storms and of course fireworks. Bonfire season is however a time which we dread at home, as no matter what we've tried in the past, has little or no effect. Hopefully your dogs fear is not quite as severe but I thought it worth sharing a few tips that may just help you get over silly season and maybe even prepare you better for when it all comes around again on New Years Eve.

Walk early
Walk your dog early and for a good period of time if you can. Firstly you avoid the bangs before they begin and secondly, a good walk will hopefully tire them out and lead to a more relaxed dog later in the evening.

Block out the sound and flashes
The easiest way to do this is to close the blinds and curtains, ensure windows and doors are closed and turn up the volume on the TV. Blocking out as much noise as possible will certainly help to alleviate the stress and diffuse the sounds from outdoors.

Don't endorse fear
It may seem callous but by cuddling your dog, patting them and trying to calm them down only actually endorses their behaviour leading them to believe that what they are doing is right. If like me at this point your dog is pacing with bulging eyes and barking, it can sometimes be rather difficult to not do so, however, research says that it's one of the worst things that you can do. Leave them to settle in their own time and don't ever bring them out from a hiding place where they've decided it's safer and more comfortable.  

Security
Is your pet microchipped? If (God forbid), for any reason your pooch gets out of the house then at least he or she is traceable. Microchipping is a must and should be done as a matter of course with your pet.

Alternative treatments
There are many products on the market that can help, as mentioned previously, these will all suit differing levels of anxiety and stress so one product will certainly not fit all. Products such as the Thundershirt are a popular item and there are various treatments ranging from natural remedies which can be purchased from your local health store, to medication in tablet or spray form and plug in diffusers which mimic the pheromones of the dogs mother. Ask your vet for advice on these products.

Noise training
Maybe not in time for bonfire night, but for New Years Eve is to play sounds effects on a regular basis whilst you're at home. You can start the sound at a low level and gradually build it up over time so that the dog gets used to the sounds. Hopefully this will become more of a consistent noise so that when the real event happens your dog isn't quite as afraid. In fact it's a method that's been known to work with great effect.

Lastly, I wish you a safe and comfortable bonfire weekend. It's going to be crazy we know but put some of the above steps in place and hopefully it'll be a more peaceful one than it would have originally been.