As the year comes to a close, many of us look forward to celebrating New Year’s Eve with fireworks and festivities. But for our canine companions, this is a time of nervousness. The loud booms and bright flashes of fireworks often trigger anxiousness in dogs.
Luckily, there are ways we can help our pets cope, and CBD is emerging as a promising option. Let’s explore how CBD might help keep your dog calm and comfortable during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Understanding Fireworks Fears in Dogs
Dogs have much sharper hearing than humans. What sounds loud to us can be downright overwhelming for them. Fireworks are sudden, unpredictable, and very noisy - all things that can easily frighten a dog. Some dogs may shake, hide, or even try to run away when they hear fireworks.
Signs Your Dog is Stressed
First things first, it’s important to know what stress looks like in dogs. Here are some common signs:
- Panting
- Pacing
- Whining or barking
- Hiding
- Trembling
- Trying to escape
- Refusing to eat
- Accidents in the house
If you notice these behaviors in your dog during fireworks, they’re likely feeling stressed.
What is CBD and How Can It Help?
CBD stands for cannabidiol. It’s a natural compound found in hemp plants. Unlike THC (another well-known cannabis compound), CBD doesn’t make you feel “high.” Instead, it’s known for its calming effects.
How CBD Might Help Dogs When Feeling Stressed
Research indicates that CBD might be useful in supporting nervousness in humans and animals. It acts on the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is involved in the regulation of mood and stress responses. For dogs with fear of fireworks, CBD may help them feel more relaxed and less reactive to the noise.
Using CBD for New Year’s Eve Fireworks
When to Give Your Dog
It’s always better to be ahead. Begin administering your dog with CBD a few days prior to New Year’s Eve. This way, it gives them enough time to build up within their system. On the day, administer an amount about an hour before the fireworks are likely to start.
How to Choose the Right CBD Product
There are a variety of products containing CBD for dogs, from oils to treats to chews. For convenience, many owners prefer CBD soft chews. They taste great and are easy to administer, which is a plus when your dog is already stressed.
Amount Guidelines
The right amount, however, is determined by the size of your dog and the product’s potency. Always begin with the minimum suggested dosage and gradually increase if necessary. Remember to follow the instructions provided with the product and consult your veterinarian.
Other Ways to Help Your Dog on New Year’s Eve
Create a Safe Space
Set up a quiet, cozy space where your dog can escape. Add his favorite bed, toys, and perhaps some clothes with your scent on them.
Use Background Noise
Put the TV on, play soothing music, or use a white noise machine to muffle the sound of the fireworks.
Keep Your Dog Indoors
Make sure your dog is safely indoors if there are fireworks outside. It helps to prevent them from fleeing out of fear.
Stay Calm and Act Normal
Pets are very attuned emotionally to us. Staying calm and acting as if all is fine is beneficial to reassure your pet.
Combination with Other Relaxation Methods Using CBD
Earlier Day Exercise
A tired dog is often a calmer dog. Give your pup plenty of exercise earlier in the day to help them feel more relaxed in the evening.
Try Calming Wraps or Vests
Products like ThunderShirts apply gentle pressure that can help some dogs feel more secure.
Use Calming Scents
Lavender or chamomile scents can be soothing for dogs. You can use a diffuser or a calming spray made for pets.
Long-Term Strategies for Noise Phobias
Desensitization Training
Over time, you can help your dog become less reactive to loud noises. This involves gradually exposing them to recorded firework sounds at a low volume and rewarding calm behavior.
Regular CBD Use for Stressed Dogs
If your dog suffers generally from stress, not only when fireworks are involved, speak to your vet about the use of CBD in their everyday lives.
Safety Considerations When Using CBD
Quality Matters
Ensure to get products made specifically for pets and from companies that are highly reputable. Also, opt for those products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency.
Possible Side Effects
While CBD is considered generally harmless, some canines might react with drowsiness or a sensitive stomach. If you notice anything that concerns you, cease use and speak with your veterinarian.
Consult Your Vet
As with any new supplement, always consult your veterinarian before beginning the use of CBD with your dog. They can guide you whether CBD may be suitable for your dog and the best way to ensure safe usage.
Pet Stress Management with CBD
New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be a nightmare for dogs. With some preparation and the possible use of CBD, you can make it a much more pleasant experience for your furry friend. Remember, every dog is different, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for your pet.
By combining CBD with other calming strategies, you’re giving your dog the best chance at a stress-free start to the new year.
