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From safe hiding places to calming treats and products like Adaptil and Thundershirt, discover how pet retailers can help create a stress-free New Year's Eve for dogs.
Fireworks season is coming up again and for many dogs it can be a stressful time. As a pet shop, it is good to be able to advise your customers on ways to help their dog get through this period as comfortably as possible. By making simple adjustments, owners can reassure their four-legged friend. Here are 7 practical tips that you can share with your customers to keep their dog calm during fireworks.
1. Create a safe shelter
Dogs have a natural tendency to seek refuge from danger; this helps them feel safe. Encourage your clients to create a quiet place for their dog to retreat to before the fireworks begin. This can be an enclosed space, such as a crate covered with a blanket, or a quiet corner of the room. Creating a safe space in advance will help your dog stay calm in an environment that feels safe and familiar.
Product tip: The District 70 Crate Cover offers dogs a sheltered and safe feeling and this crate cover also looks stylish in the living room.
2. Comfort with a favorite stuffed animal
A favorite stuffed animal or toy can be a great comfort. Tell your clients that dogs can enjoy having a “buddy” during stressful times. This toy can serve as a distraction, but also provides a sense of security through familiarity. Consider products such as soft toys or teething toys that are specifically designed for comfort.
Product tip: The sturdy Beco cuddly toys can withstand a calming biting session from the dog.
3. Turn on some music
The sounds of fireworks can be overwhelming for dogs, so a good tip is to put on some calming music to mask the sound of the fireworks. There are special playlists on platforms like Spotify or Apple Music designed for pets. Playing calming music can help distract the dog and create a relaxed atmosphere.
4. Provide a calming snack
There are special treats that can help dogs stay calm. It is a good idea for shops to stock calming treats, such as those containing chamomile, a natural calming agent. Please note: it is important to advise customers to consult their vet if in doubt about any stronger calming agents.
Product tip: Warmako has two calming snacks with chamomile in its range; Beco Dog Choc and Imby Snooze & Sleep . As calming supplements you can recommend Greenfields Calm+ , Adaptil Chew or Imby Calming supplement .
5. Provide a well-stuffed chew toy
Providing your dog with a treat toy filled with their favorite treats or calming snacks will keep your dog occupied and focused on getting their tasty reward. This is a great way to distract your dog and keep their mind off the stressful sounds of fireworks. A durable chew toy can also keep your dog occupied for a long time and provide a positive outlet for their energy.
Product Tip: The West Paw Holiday Toppl is a great choice. This durable toy can be filled with calming treats or snacks, and the Holiday limited edition in Evergreen and Candy Cane makes it perfect for the holidays.
6. Adaptil: Calming pheromones
Another option for fireworks anxiety is Adaptil, a product that uses calming pheromones. These synthetic pheromones mimic the pheromones a mother dog emits to calm her puppies. Adaptil comes in a variety of forms, such as a spray, diffuser, or collar, and helps dogs feel safer and less stressed during fireworks. It’s a great addition to the products you offer to help dogs get through these anxious times.
Click here for the full Adaptil range.
7. Thundershirt: relaxing vest
Thundershirt is a popular product that has been proven to be effective in relieving stress in dogs. It works by applying gentle, constant pressure that has a calming effect, similar to the way you would comfort a child by holding them tightly. The Thundershirt is ideal for dogs that experience anxiety from fireworks noises, and can be easily worn without causing discomfort to the dog. This product has been proven to be very effective in reducing anxiety, and could be a valuable addition to your store’s inventory.
Happy New Year
Remind your customers that being prepared can help ensure a calmer New Year’s Eve for their dog. With simple adjustments and reassuring products, dog owners can help prevent a lot of stress for their pets. Make sure your store is prepared with the right products like Adaptil, Thundershirt and calming treats, and that your team is on hand to offer advice.
With these practical tips and products, dogs can get through the fireworks season much more peacefully, and your store can help them do just that!