Bonfire Night can be a thrilling event for many, but for our furry friends, the loud bangs and flashing lights can often be frightening and stressful. Dogs have heightened senses, especially when it comes to sounds, and the sudden noises of fireworks can create an unsettling experience for them. A great way to help ease their anxiety is by keeping them happily distracted with comforting treats and tasty activities that not only soothe but also bring joy. In this post, we’ll explore some delicious dog-friendly recipes, treat ideas, and comforting routines you can incorporate to help make Bonfire Night a little easier for your dog.
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Why Bonfire Night is Stressful for Dogs
Dogs’ hearing is far more sensitive than ours, making them particularly vulnerable to loud and unexpected noises. Fireworks emit sounds that are sudden and unpredictable, which is especially challenging for dogs who rely on routines and familiarity. It’s not just the sound, though; the flashing lights and strange smells in the air can contribute to their discomfort. Given that more dogs get lost on Bonfire Night than any other day of the year, it’s essential to keep our pets calm, safe, and as comfortable as possible during this potentially stressful night.
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Pre-Bonfire Night Preparation: Setting Up a Treat-Filled Safe Space
Creating a comforting space where your dog can retreat is a fantastic start. Set up a quiet area in your home, away from windows and outside doors, that you can make as cozy and inviting as possible. Here’s how to enhance it with treats and goodies:
Fill the Space with Comfort Food: Provide treats that are more substantial and can keep your dog happily chewing, such as long-lasting chews or natural bones.
DIY Hide-and-Treat Corners: Hide treats in blankets or bedding in their safe space. Dogs often feel comforted by sniffing and discovering treats hidden in their surroundings.
Aromatherapy and Calming Treats: Look for treats made with calming ingredients like chamomile or valerian root. Calming treats, available at pet stores, often include ingredients known for their soothing properties, ideal for anxious pups.
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Fun Food-Based Activities to Keep Dogs Occupied
Bonfire Night is a perfect time to engage your dog with enrichment activities that focus on food and scent games. Here are some creative ideas:
Frozen Kong Stuffing
Kongs are a great way to keep your dog busy, and by freezing a mixture of healthy ingredients inside, you extend the time they’ll be happily occupied. Try these combinations:
Peanut Butter and Banana: Mash up a banana and mix with peanut butter (make sure it’s dog-safe, without xylitol).
Sweet Potato Puree and Kibble: Fill the Kong with layers of your dog’s kibble mixed with sweet potato puree.
Chicken and Carrot: Blend cooked chicken with grated carrots, then freeze.
Frozen treats provide your dog with both a cooling and soothing effect while the prolonged activity keeps their minds occupied, reducing stress.
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Distracting Your Dog with Food Puzzles and Slow-Feeders
Food puzzles and slow-feeder bowls are fantastic for mentally stimulating your dog, giving them something positive to focus on during the fireworks:
Food Puzzle Toys: There are many options, from simple treat-dispensing balls to more advanced puzzles where dogs have to work a bit harder to release treats.
Snuffle Mats: Snuffle mats mimic the experience of foraging by allowing you to hide treats within a fabric maze. Your dog will have to sniff around and work to get each treat, which keeps them focused and engaged.
LickiMats: Spread a soft treat like peanut butter, pumpkin puree, or yoghourt on the mat and let your dog lick it off. Licking is a self-soothing behaviour for dogs, and the extended licking time can be quite calming.
Keep It Safe: Foods to Avoid
While it’s tempting to offer dogs treats, especially on Bonfire Night, remember that some human foods are not safe for them. Avoid chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and any artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Stick to ingredients that you know are dog-safe, or consult with your vet if you’re unsure.
Post-Fireworks: Treats for a Calming Wind-Down Routine
Once the fireworks are over, it’s time to help your dog transition back to calmness and unwind. Here’s how to incorporate food into a comforting, post-fireworks routine:
Chamomile-Infused Biscuits: Chamomile is known for its relaxing effects. You can make a simple treat by baking oat flour biscuits infused with chamomile tea.
Bone Broth : A warm (or cool) bone broth cube can be refreshing and hydrating for your dog, helping them wind down and settle into a peaceful sleep.
Herbal Tea Soaked Treats: Soak your dog’s regular treats in a mild chamomile or valerian root tea. This added boost may help ease any lingering anxiety and get them ready for a restful night.
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With the right preparation, treats, and calming activities, you can transform Bonfire Night from a night of anxiety to a more enjoyable experience for your dog. By setting up a cozy retreat, offering fun food puzzles, and providing treats with calming ingredients, you can keep your furry friend occupied and help them feel secure even during the noisiest of celebrations. With a bit of extra care and delicious distractions, Bonfire Night can be made into a more comforting evening for both you and your dog.
