Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Festival ~ A Wonderful Night For Us, A Terrifying Eve For Our Pups!

Tonight is the night we’ve been waiting for, the wonderful Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Festival. This night can be a magical eve for us humans, but for our furry friends it can be profoundly terrifying.

So, when night falls and the lights in the sky start to fly, be sure to take these precautions to help your pup make it through the night, safe and sound.

Leave Your Pups at Home ~ The crowds and noises of the fireworks can be overwhelming and scary for your rascals. The loud explosions can send them into a sheer and utter panic. Even though you may love the thought of having your pups with you to enjoy the show, play it safe and leave them at home.

Close/Lock all Windows and Doors ~ Dogs have been known to jump out windows and bolt out doors when the boom of fireworks blasts through the sky. Not only will closing the windows reduce the intense noise, it will keep your dogs contained in the safety of their own home.

Anxiety Wraps ~ These are body-fitting t-shirt type wraps that can help calm your dog.  The snuggly, constant pressure can ease your dogs’ anxiety and help them relax (think swaddling a baby).  There are several brands on the market, with the *Thundershirt being the most popular.  It’s not a cure, but can help a great deal.

Give Your Pups a Safe/Quiet Place To Spend their Night ~ While you celebrate the night's festivities make up a warm, comfortable spot in a quiet room of your home.  Create a "cocoon" for your rascal, a place for them to rest and relax.  Play some classical music (studies have shown it can relax dogs), or turn on the television (something calm), and give him a special/high-value bone or treat to chew on. The bone will keep him busy and give him a place to release his stress while he chills out to the soothing music.

With a little thought and care, you can keep your pups safe, calm and happy on this potentially stressful night. Take the time for them, they'll thank you for it with wags and wiggles!

Have a wonderful holiday season!

*Thundershirts can be purchased locally at Pet Foods Market in Manhattan Beach.