By Norma Jeanne Laurette

​We’ve all heard the saying, “It’s better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.” That’s easy to say until dealing with the devastating pain of losing someone you love, animal or human. And for those who say, “It’s just a dog”, I feel bad for them to have never experienced the true, innocent, honest, pure and unconditional love that can only come from an animal. Love between people always comes with conditions but it’s different with dogs. Losing a pet, no matter the species, can be as excruciating as losing a person and for some people, even more so.

For those of you going through this, know that Greg and I understand your grief and our hearts go out to you. We’ve been there many times. I’ve always said that the only good thing that comes from losing a dog is that you learn more about yourself and what you need to heal but I take that back, because every loss is different, every one is extremely painful and there is no quick way through the grieving process. That said – there is always light at the end of the tunnel. 
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For many guardians, dogs are not just pets but instead beloved and valued members of the family. When a loved one (pet or person) passes away, the grief does not only affect the people left behind – as highly social, sensitive and perceptive animals, dogs can also experience a profound loss R1. Many guardians notice their dogs searching for their lost companion, showing signs of confusion, restlessness and even depression R2. Although dogs don’t grieve the same way we do, they can show emotional and behavioural changes that reflect their loss R3. While we can’t explain death to them, we can help our dogs and ourselves navigate through grief with compassion, patience and mutual comfort.

• If you’re considering bringing in a young, energetic puppy for a grieving senior dog or for a dog with low sociability or play drive, it could increase stress and anxiety for both of you instead of providing comfort.
• If your dog has chronic health issues, adding another dog could cause more harm than good.
• Does your dog enjoy the company of other dogs or merely tolerate them? If your dog doesn’t like meeting or playing with new dogs or if it’s shy or reactive, another dog may not be a good idea.
• If your dog likes other dogs but doesn’t enjoy play, a companion with a similar temperament might be a good fit.
• If your dog is deeply depressed, it may require more time before it’s ready to accept and enjoy the presence of another dog.
• Is the size of the new dog compatible with your grieving dog? Is it the same size or smaller?
• Is the energy level and temperament of the new dog a good match for your grieving dog?
• Are there any other pets in your home that might be negatively affected by the arrival of a new dog?
• Are both your grieving dog and your family members emotionally prepared for a new dog and to meet the needs of both dogs?
• Bringing a new dog into your home, no matter its age, requires careful introductions, training, exercise, attention and supervision. Is your entire family ready for these responsibilities?
• Can you afford the expenses associated with adding another dog?
• Do you have enough space (both indoors and outdoors) for another dog?
• Are the relationships within your home stable? Remember, stress or negativity in the household can negatively affect your dogs’ emotional wellbeing.
• Has your grieving dog shown fear, reactivity or aggression toward new dogs on walks or when they’ve come into your home?
• Can you create separate spaces to safely introduce the dogs gradually if required?
• If you’re unsure about any of these factors, consulting a positive, qualified canine behaviour expert can help you make the best decision for everyone involved.

Most dogs adjust to loss within a few weeks although some could take months. However, if your dog’s grief persists with severe depression or anxiety, refusal to eat or unusual withdrawal, you’ll need to rule out underlying health issues and consider calming aids to temporarily help reduce the anxiety. Some options include CBD oil (used with expert guidance), calming music, dog TV, calming scents, pheromone diffusers, safe natural supplements or anxiety wraps. Canine enrichment options including safe chew options to keep your dog occupied will also be beneficial.

Likewise, if your grief feels unmanageable you may want to reach out for support. Speak with trusted friends or family or reach out to a counsellor or grief support group R12. You don’t have to do this alone.

Grieving along with your dog can be healing for both of you. Both you and your dog need comfort and you can find strength in nurturing your dog through this difficult time. Keeping routines, spending time together, providing your dog with enrichment activities and allowing space for decompression and relaxation when needed can help you both move forward one day at a time.

Grief is the price we pay for love. By supporting your dog through the loss with patience, compassion and understanding, you not only honour the bond they had with the dog you lost but also the bond they have with you. Over time, you and your dog will find new moments of happiness together.

At the beginning of this article I mentioned that with even the most devastating loss there is always light at the end of the tunnel. The following is from my book Dog Hair On My Guitar.

R1:  Bradshaw, J. W. S. (2011). Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behavior Can Make You A Better Friend to Your Pet. Basic Books.
R2: Archer, J., & Winchester, G. (1994). Bereavement among dog owners: The loss of a companion animal. Omega, 29(3), 249–271.
R3: McMillan, F. D. (2019). Mental Health and Well-Being in Animals. CABI.
R4: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Elsevier.
R5: Horowitz, A. (2010). Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know. Scribner.
R6: Bekoff, M. (2007). The Emotional Lives of Animals. New World Library.
R7: Coren, S. (2012). Do Dogs Understand Death? Psychology Today.
R8: Lindsay, S. R. (2000). Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training. Wiley-Blackwell.
R9: Stroebe, M., Schut, H., & Boerner, K. (2017). Cautioning health-care professionals: Bereaved persons are misguided through the stages of grief. Omega, 74(4), 455–473.
R10: Hart, B. L. (2010). The Loss of a Pet. Wiley-Blackwell.
R11: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Elsevier.
R12: Worden, J. W. (2018). Grief Counseling and Grief Therapy: A Handbook for the Mental Health Practitioner. Springer.
R13: Laurette. NJ. Dog Hair On My Guitar. (2021) https://dogtrainingcareers.com/product/dog-hair-on-my-guitar/
R14: Laurette. NJ. & Ceci.Greg. Blueprint To A Happy Dog. (2019). https://dogtrainingcareers.com/product/blueprint-to-a-happy-dog/

Photos By Norma Jeanne Laurette

By Norma Jeanne Laurette ​

​The flirt response in dogs refers to playful invitation, as dogs exhibit this behaviour when initiating play with another dog or human. Classic flirt behaviours include the play bow (front end lowered, rear end up), exaggerated movements, submissive grin (similar to a human smile), side-to-side bounces as well as fast wagging tails held mid to high, helicopter tail, which rotates or the dog spinning and grabbing its own tail. These signals are designed to communicate a desire for friendly interaction R1.

Play behaviour is deeply rooted in the social development of dogs as it helps puppies learn boundaries, bite inhibition and cooperation. Even in adulthood, play is used as a way to reinforce bonds and release tension. Flirt behaviour is typically a proactive, voluntary combination of behaviours offered when the dog feels relatively safe, confident and happy R2.
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However, flirtation in dogs isn’t always innocent. Sometimes, especially in poorly socialized or anxious dogs, flirtation can have an edge with too much intensity, stiffness or assertiveness and act as a displacement behaviour with a conflicted dog. A rough or prolonged play bow that turns into stalking, mounting or body slamming may indicate arousal that is climbing to a dangerous level R3.

​The freeze response is a moment of absolute stillness, when a dog pauses mid-interaction. This can be blatantly obvious or incredibly subtle, so subtle that many guardians and trainers miss it. The freeze is the body pausing while the dog gathers information and makes a decision: Is this safe? Is it dangerous? Should I play? Should I disengage? Should I escape? Should I escalate? Should I fight?

Freeze behaviours are particularly important because they precede play, escalation or de-escalation. A dog that freezes during play may suddenly explode into a chase, play or just as easily snap, growl, lunge or bite R4. The freeze is therefore a pivotal signal marking a possible transition point between play, disengagement and aggression. This makes it essential for anyone supervising dog interactions to learn how to recognize and interpret the freeze accurately.
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The challenge lies in context. A freeze may follow a flirt cue and be interpreted as part of the play sequence however, if the dog feels threatened, trapped or overwhelmed the freeze becomes defensive marking the calm before a storm. What determines the outcome is often the other dog or person’s next move. A friendly, respectful gesture may trigger more play where an assertive or intrusive response could provoke a bite or fight R5.

​A dog’s tail is a vital indicator of emotional state and intent, especially during moments of uncertainty, stress or fear. When a dog enters a freeze, the position and movement of the tail can reveal what may follow. If the tail is low and tucked tightly under the body, it can suggest fear or submission, signalling that the dog may attempt to flee, is about to shut down or defend itself. A high, stiff tail on the other hand can suggest tension with a readiness to escalate to what we’ve coined ‘deterrent behaviour’ or aggression, particularly if accompanied by other signs such as a hard stare or raised hackles R9. To learn about ‘deterrent behaviour’ see our first book Blueprint To A Happy Dog R16.

​What happens after the freeze can often be predicted by subtle shifts or micro-expression in the tail. A slight wag of a low tail may suggest the dog is trying to de-escalate or is uncertain yet willing to engage peacefully, however the direction of the tail wag also has meaning. Research has shown that dogs wagging to their right side are likely feeling relaxed and open to approach, whereas a wag to the left can indicate negative and cautious emotional states R10. A tail that begins to rise, stiffen or wag predominantly left during or after a freeze could signal growing arousal and/or the potential for aggression, especially if the dog has ill intent or feels cornered R11. Understanding these subtle cues can allow handlers and guardians to respond appropriately to prevent potential escalation.

​One of the most common reasons the flirt-freeze dynamic escalates to aggression is a mismatch in play styles, communication and/or social skills. Some dogs enjoy rough play while others prefer calmer interactions. A confident dog may misread a freeze from a shy dog as playful behaviour and respond by increasing its play energy, which can overwhelm the dog. This increase can quickly turn a freeze into a defensive growl, snap or bite. To learn more about communication styles refer to our first book Blueprint To A Happy Dog R16.  
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Dogs with limited social skills or a history of trauma may rely on freezing more often or more intensely as a coping strategy. Without the social tools to flirt and disengage smoothly, they default to defensive freezing when they feel threatened. Recognizing this and teaching other dogs (and people) to respect their boundaries is vital to preventing conflict R6.

​A dog may show similar behaviours in both playful and aggressive situations, which is why it’s important to always read all of their signals, not just one. No part of the body communicates alone – we always need to consider the posture, ears, eyes and tail, as well as the environment, situation and what we may know about the dog’s history to gain a clear understanding of where the freeze may lead R15.

​The key to safety when managing flirt and freeze behaviours lies in prevention, observation and early intervention. The first step is only putting suitable dogs together for play, dogs with similar play styles, confidence, energy and social skills. When dogs are playing, look for fluid movement, regularly switching roles, soft faces, loose bodies, tails to the right and frequent pauses. If one dog suddenly becomes still, tucks its tail, raises a stiff tail, moves it to the right or gives a hard stare, if the other dog doesn’t respect its space or its energy increases – it could result in a fight.

Early, positive training and socialization programs teach dogs how to respond appropriately to both flirt and freeze. It reinforces polite greetings, teaches canine communication skills and disengagement cues and provides them with positive learning experiences with a variety of dogs.
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For humans, stepping in before the freeze tips to aggression can prevent bites and fights and rebuild trust. Calling a time-out, redirecting energy or simply separating the dogs for a brief reset can make all the difference R8.

​R1: Bekoff, M. (2001). Social play behaviour: Cooperation, fairness, trust and the evolution of morality. Journal of Consciousness Studies, 8(2), 81–90. Explores the evolutionary function of play in social species.
R2: Horowitz, A. (2009). Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know. Scribner. Discusses the cognitive and emotional motivations behind play and social behaviours in dogs.
R3: Bradshaw, J. (2011). Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behaviour Can Make You A Better Friend to Your Pet. Basic Books. Explains how arousal affects dog behaviour and communication.
R4: Donaldson, J. (2005). Culture Clash. James & Kenneth Publishers. Identifies the freeze as a critical moment in canine social encounters.
R5: McConnell, P. (2002). The Other End of the Leash. Ballantine Books. Analyzes how humans often miss or misinterpret canine body language, including the freeze.
R6: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioural Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Elsevier Health Sciences. Details behavioural responses, including freeze, in stressed or reactive animals.
R7: Serpell, J. A. (Ed.). (2017). The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behaviour and Interactions with People (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press. Includes breed-specific tendencies in social and play behaviours.
R8: Miller, P. (2008). Play With Your Dog. Dogwise Publishing. Offers guidance on managing and interpreting canine play safely.
R9: Lindsay, S. R. (2001). Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1: Adaptation and Learning. Iowa State University Press. Details canine body language and tail postures as predictors of behavioral outcomes.
R10: Quaranta, A., Siniscalchi, M., & Vallortigara, G. (2007). Asymmetric tail-wagging responses by dogs to different emotive stimuli. Current Biology, 17(6), R199–R201. Demonstrates that right-sided tail wags indicate positive emotions, while left-sided wags reflect negative ones.
R11: McConnell, P. B. (2002). The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs. Ballantine Books. Discusses human-dog communication and how recognizing tail cues can prevent conflict.
R12: Horwitz, D. F., & Mills, D. S. (2009). BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Behavioural Medicine (2nd ed.). British Small Animal Veterinary Association. Describes behavioral signs associated with fear and aggression.
R13: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Elsevier. Offers clinical insight into stress-related behaviors and how body language indicates emotional transitions.
R14: Shepherd, K. (2009). Behavioural Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Saunders. Emphasizes body posture and movement as predictive tools in canine behavioral assessments.
R15: Bekoff, M. (2007). The Emotional Lives of Animals. New World Library. Highlights the interplay of multiple body signals and environmental context in interpreting animal behavior.
R16: Laurette, N. J., & Ceci, G., 2025. Blueprint To A Happy Dog. [Self-published].
R17: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Elsevier. — Describes canine aggression signals and the risk of approaching a frozen dog.
R18: Donaldson, J. (2010). Mine! A Practical Guide to Resource Guarding in Dogs. Dogwise Publishing. — Practical strategies for safe separation and management of tense dogs.
R19: McConnell, P. B. (2002). The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs. Ballantine Books. — Discusses safe techniques for redirecting and managing dog interactions.
R20: Yin, S. (2009). Low Stress Handling, Restraint and Behavior Modification of Dogs and Cats. CattleDog Publishing. — Covers reading body language and handling dogs safely in high-arousal situations.
R21: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Elsevier. — Describes using safe redirection and understanding the freeze response in aggression.
R22: McConnell, P. B. (2002). The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs. Ballantine Books. — Explains practical interrupters like noises and food scatters for safe handling.
R23: Yin, S. (2009). Low Stress Handling, Restraint and Behavior Modification of Dogs and Cats. CattleDog Publishing. — Outlines safe distraction tools and techniques for handling tense dogs.
R24: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Elsevier. Practical guidance on dog aggression, conflict prevention and safe intervention strategies.
R25: Dunbar, I. (2003). Dog Behavior: An Owner’s Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet. Howell Book House. C26vers basic principles of dog behavior and safe handling in emergencies.
R26: McConnell, P. B. (2002). The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs. Ballantine Books. Discusses safe techniques for handling tense or aggressive dog interactions.
R27: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Elsevier. Describes body language signals in dogs, including eye contact and aggression.
R28: Beaver, B. V. (2009). Canine Behavior: Insights and Answers (2nd ed.). Saunders. Discusses conflict behaviors and visual signals like glancing or avoidance.
R29: Yin, S. (2009). Low Stress Handling, Restraint and Behavior Modification of Dogs & Cats. CattleDog Publishing. Explains social communication between dogs and how eye contact can escalate or diffuse tension.

Photo By Greg Ceci

By Norma Jeanne Laurette

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Leaving a dog outdoors for extended periods of time in hot weather, especially without shade and access to cool water can be just as deadly as a hot car. Dogs left outside don’t always move to shade when overheated and some breeds are more vulnerable than others, such as sick or senior dogs. Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds such as Bulldogs and Pugs face a higher risk of heat stroke because their respiratory systems struggle to release excess heat efficiently R4. On hot days it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

Storm phobia is a serious problem for many dogs. With hearing four times greater than ours, it’s important to understand that not only can storms be frightening for dogs – the sheer volume of a crack of thunder can be overwhelming. Thunderstorms can cause clingy dogs, dogs that tremble with fear, pace, hide, vocalize, destroy things or attempt to escape. These reactions can be caused not only by the visual triggers and loud noises, but also by static barometric pressure dropping and an increase in the scent of ozone, which some dogs can detect long before a storm arrives R5. This can cause anxiety before you are even aware of the oncoming storm.

Signs Of Stress, Anxiety & Fear

Signs of stress, anxiety and fear in dogs can include freezing (not moving), yawning, lip licking, drooling, panting, avoiding eye contact, ears back, wide eyes, tucked tail, cowering, whining, barking, growling, restlessness, pacing, unusual shedding, destructive behaviour and attempts to escape.

High Valued Treats

Food can be an effective tool when helping dogs overcome fear. In order to override the negativity of a stressful situation, any food you choose to create a pleasant association with unpleasant stimuli must be of high value to the dog – otherwise it won’t be effective. If there’s a particular food your dog values above all others, reserve it specifically for your behaviour modification program to keep it extra special. The secret is aroma because if it isn’t aromatic, it won’t keep your dog’s attention. For some dogs, this could be roast chicken or steak. Since fish tends to be especially aromatic, most of the dogs in my classes go crazy for my fresh-baked salmon cake. Feel free to ask for the recipe.

Tools

Calming products such as Thunder Shirts and pheromone diffusers can help reduce anxiety for some dogs R7. Supplements such as CBD oil, calming scents such as lavender and other holistic remedies may also be beneficial. However, it’s important to thoroughly research any new remedy to ensure it is safe before trying it with your dog. In more severe cases, prescription medication may be necessary on a temporary basis while working through a behaviour modification program. I always prefer to try safe, holistic options first as all prescription medications used for anxiety in dogs come with risk. Always do your research in order to make informed choices for your dog.
A Safe DenCreating a small, dark, comfortable, den-like space that your dog can retreat to, preferably in an interior room away from any windows can help increase your dog’s sense of safety. When that’s not possible, moving to the lower level of your house, covering windows and playing calming music or television loud enough to mask the sound of thunder can further help ease your dog’s distress.

Desensitization & Counter Conditioning

Behaviour modification through desensitization and counter-conditioning is often the most effective long-term solution R6. Desensitizing your dog to the sounds of a storm works best when started at a young age, although many older dogs can also benefit. Numerous online resources offer downloadable storm sound recordings specifically for desensitization and counter-conditioning. The months between autumn and spring provide a great opportunity to proactively troubleshoot the issue before storm season arrives. Your goal should be to work at a pace that avoids triggering any signs of stress, anxiety or fear.

Sound Desensitization

Download a high-quality recording that includes rain, wind and thunder. Begin this exercise during a calm, quiet time when your dog is relaxed. Stay close to your dog in order to observe any changes in behaviour. Play the recording for thirty seconds at a volume so low that your dog notices it but does not react or show any signs of stress, anxiety or fear. If you observe any of these signs, stop the recording immediately and take a break. When you resume, be sure to lower the volume significantly. If your dog shows no reaction, calmly reward him or her with a high-value treat, gentle stroking and/or praise.

Slowly Increase The Intensity

As your dog remains calm and begins to anticipate positive experiences when hearing thunder, gradually increase the volume of your recorded sounds. It’s important to proceed very slowly and let your dog set the pace. Keep your sessions short – approximately five minutes at a time once or twice a day, at least three times a week and always end with a success. If you don’t do it often enough you’ll lose your progress. If your dog starts to show any signs of stress, anxiety or fear, return to your last point of success and proceed more slowly.

Create A Pleasant Association With Counter Conditioning

If your dog reacts to storms before you’re even aware of them, watch for signs that it has noticed a change in the environment. As soon as you observe any of these signs, begin creating a pleasant association with the storm triggers by pairing them with high-value treats, puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, stuffed Kongs or Nylabones or a favourite or new toy or game reserved exclusively for storms. If your dog only gets its favourite things during storms, there’s a greater chance of pleasant emotions overriding the distractions of the storm. If your dog doesn’t react until after you’re aware of the storm, be ready to do the same the moment you hear rain, wind or thunder or see lightning. Correct timing is essential to helping your dog form a positive association with its fear triggers.

Happy Cue

Teaching your dog a “happy cue” before a storm is forecasted can help prevent a fear response. I coined the term happy cue to describe a word or series of words used to create pleasant associations in advance of an upsetting event, helping to override negative emotions before they start. This cue sets the stage for a positive emotional state, which can then be reinforced through desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques aimed at reducing stress, anxiety, and fear triggers. These techniques work to replace unpleasant emotional responses with more positive, relaxed ones.

Begin by preparing a variety of enticing, aromatic treats and chew options for your dog. Offer the treat or chew item a few times a day while giving a happy cue such as “happy time!” or another word or phrase of your choosing. You can also serve meals in frozen stuffed Kongs or Nylabones and add a healthy, low-calorie chew option in between meals. This creates an opportunity to build happy emotions on cue and sets your dog up for success. A calming scent such as lavender can also be introduced when offering the treat or chew item, creating an additional sensory cue for a happy association. Always research any scent before using it to ensure it’s safe for dogs.

1. Give your happy cue as you present the scent then offer your dog an enticing treat or chew item.
2. Another option is pairing playing games with your dog while using your happy cue.
3. Repeat this three times a day until your dog wags its tail every time the scent is presented and/or the happy cue is given. Only then are you ready to move on to applying your happy cue to the approach of and during actual storms. Happy cues can also be used along with planned departures for the purpose of treating separation anxiety.
4. If your happy cue involves treats and/or chew options, make sure these special items are always available on short notice and saved only for your rehabilitation programs.
5. When your dog indicates an incoming storm or you notice rain, wind, thunder or lightning, immediately present the scent, treats, chew items and/or a game, along with your happy cue. 

Generalization

Once your dog no longer reacts in any way to the sounds of a storm, begin to play the sounds during everyday activities and in as many different locations as possible. This helps achieve generalization, so your dog becomes comfortable with these sounds in any situation.

Always let your dog set the pace and never use force or an unpleasant tone of voice, as this will increase stress and exacerbate the problem. It can also be helpful to use some of the aids mentioned above to improve your chances of success. Remember, this is not a quick fix and always let your dog set the pace.

When Your Dog Is Not Responding To TreatmentBecause you cannot control a storm, there may be times when the storm is intense and overwhelming, your dog panics and nothing seems to help. In these moments your dog is not able to learn so it’s important to shift your approach to one of emotional support.

1. If this happens, stop playing or training immediately. Continuing could cause your dog to associate unpleasant emotions with your happy cue, treats or games rendering them ineffective. It’s very important to avoid creating poisoned cues, which are learned cues that become associated with something unpleasant, resulting in signs of stress, anxiety or fear.
2. Move your dog to the quietest room in your home, ideally away from windows and other sensory input from the storm. Refer to ‘A Safe Den’ above.
3. Do not interfere with your dog’s natural coping behaviours such as hiding or pacing. Never scold your dog or force confinement, as this will only increase the unpleasant emotions.
4. If your dog is receptive, you can sit beside him or her and speak in a calm but cheerful voice. You may also gently stroke your dog or use gentle massage or Tellington TTouch. If your dog prefers space, you need to respect that.

Guardians should never scold fearful behaviour as it only increases stress, anxiety and fear. Instead, be present and supportive whenever possible. Dogs are deeply in tune with our energy and emotions, so remaining calm and happy is essential.

To be proactive, continue pairing each trigger such as rain, wind, thunder or lightning with a calming scent, tasty treats, chew options and/or fun games to build positive associations. While some believe that comforting a fearful dog reinforces the fear, I believe that calm, reassuring touch in moments of fear provides comfort and strengthens the human-canine trust bond. I want my dogs to know they can always count on me when they need me. That said, not all storms can be predicted so being prepared ahead of time is important.

​Much like thunderstorms, fireworks can trigger an intense fear reaction in dogs. Fireworks can be unpredictable and are often accompanied by flashes of light, loud noises and strong smells, making them extremely frightening to many dogs R8.

Fear of fireworks has been linked to increased cortisol levels indicating high stress and physiological distress R9. This stress can cause dogs to bolt, become aggressive or injure themselves trying to escape. Microchipping and ID tags are essential safeguards at all times but especially during holidays and long weekends when more dogs go missing than any other time of year.

Another identification option that can drastically speed up the return of a dog is the Supernormal Pawtag. The Supernormal Pawtag gives you real peace of mind, sending your pet’s exact location straight to you the moment the tag is scanned. The tag alerts nearby vets, kennels and also other Supernormal users to help you find your pet quickly. You can build a fully custom pet profile, to keep all of your pet’s data in one place, updating your address and contact information in seconds. 

Preventive strategies for helping dogs cope with fireworks and keeping them safe can include keeping them indoors during displays to reduce exposure to sudden sights and loud noises. Calming aids such as CBD oil (used with expert guidance), calming scents, pheromone diffusers, safe herbal supplements and Thunder Shirts can also be beneficial. Providing distractions such as puzzle toys, treats or interactive games can help the dog focus on other things. Using counter conditioning and desensitization to firework sounds (as described above) using online recordings throughout the year can help the dog become accustomed to the triggers and form a more positive association before the next fireworks display.

As with thunderstorms, carefully creating positive associations from a young age can prevent long-term problems. However, be aware that sick or elderly dogs can become sensitive to thunderstorms and fireworks even if they showed no fear when they were younger. Age-related changes such as declining hearing or vision can make the sudden sounds and flashes more disorienting R22. Cognitive decline including conditions such as canine cognitive dysfunction can reduce a dog’s ability to process and cope with stress, making them more reactive to environmental stimuli R23. Chronic pain from issues such as arthritis may also heighten their overall sensitivity and contribute to anxiety (R24). Neurological changes or illness-related stress can further lower their tolerance for loud noises R25. As dogs age, they may also become more emotionally dependent or anxious, which increases their vulnerability to developing phobias later in life R26.

R1: McLaren, C., Null, J., & Quinn, J. (2005). Heat stress from enclosed vehicles: Moderate ambient temperatures cause significant temperature rise in enclosed vehicles. Pediatrics, 116(1), e109–e112.
R2: Bruchim, Y., Horowitz, M., & Aroch, I. (2009). Heat stroke in dogs: A retrospective study of 54 cases (1999–2004) and analysis of risk factors for death. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 23(2), 320–325.
R3: Asphalt Institute. (2015). Pavement surface temperatures. Heat Safety Guidelines. Retrieved from asphaltinstitute.org
R4: Bloxham, L. (2018). Recognising and managing heat stress in dogs. Veterinary Nursing Journal, 33(9), 267–271.
R5: Levine, E. D., Ramos, D., & Mills, D. S. (2007). A prospective study of two self-help CD based desensitization and counter-conditioning programmes with the use of Dog Appeasing Pheromone for the treatment of firework fears in dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 105(4), 311–329.
R6: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats. Elsevier.
R7: Landsberg, G. M., Hunthausen, W. L., & Ackerman, L. J. (2012). Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat (3rd ed.). Saunders.
R8: Sherman, B. L., & Mills, D. S. (2008). Canine anxieties and phobias: An update on separation anxiety and noise aversions. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 38(5), 1081–1106.
R9: Dreschel, N. A. (2010). The effects of fear and anxiety on health and lifespan in pet dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 125(3-4), 157–162.
R10: Little, S. E. (2010). Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis in dogs: Emerging tick-borne diseases. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 40(6), 1121–1140.
R11: American Kennel Club. (2020). Water safety for dogs: Tips for summer swimming. Retrieved from akc.org 
R12: Backer, L. C., McNeel, S. V., Barber, T., Kirkpatrick, B., Williams, C., Irvin, M., … & Cheng, Y. S. (2009). Recreational exposure to microcystins during algal blooms in two California lakes. Toxicon, 55(5), 909–921.
R13: Goldschmidt, M. H., & Shofer, F. S. (1992). Skin tumors of the dog and cat. Pergamon Press.
R14: ASPCA. (2023). People food to avoid feeding your pets. Retrieved from aspca.org
R15: American Kennel Club. (2022). Can Dogs Get Dry Drowning? https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dry-drowning-in-dogs/
R16: PetMD. (2023). Near-Drowning in Dogs. https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/respiratory/c_dg_near_drowning
R17:Veterinary Emergency Group. (n.d.). Dry Drowning in Dogs: What It Is and How to Spot It.  https://veterinaryemergencygroup.com/blog/dry-drowning-in-dogs
R18: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. (2021). Emergency Preparedness and Water Safety Tips for Pet Owners. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/emergency-preparedness 
R19: U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (2018). FDA alerts pet owners and veterinarians about potential for neurologic adverse events associated with certain flea and tick products. https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-alerts-pet-owners-and-veterinarians-about-potential-neurologic-adverse-events-associated
R20: EMA (European Medicines Agency). (2019). Assessment report: Isoxazoline class—pharmacovigilance review. EMA/774580/2019. European Medicines Agency. Summary of neurological adverse effects reported across the isoxazoline class.
R21: Wismer, T., & Means, C. (2021). Veterinary toxicology: Basics and clinical implications. In P. J. Pascoe & L. A. McDonell (Eds.), Flea and tick medications (pp. 347–355). Wiley-Blackwell. Discusses systemic versus topical treatment risks and safety in neurologically sensitive dogs.
R22: Landsberg, G. M., Hunthausen, W., & Ackerman, L. (2013). Behavior problems of the dog and cat (3rd ed.). Saunders. 
Discusses sensory decline and its behavioral impacts in aging pets.
R23: Fast, R., Schütt, T., Toft, N., Møller, A., & Berendt, M. (2013). An observational study with long-term follow-up of canine cognitive dysfunction: Clinical characteristics, survival, and risk factors. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 27(4), 822–829.
Examines cognitive decline in aging dogs and how it affects behavior.
R24: Lascelles, B. D. X., Dong, Y., Marcellin-Little, D. J., & Wright, B. D. (2010). Pain and movement in dogs with osteoarthritis. Veterinary Surgery, 39(5), 535–545.
Explores how chronic pain influences behavior and sensitivity in dogs.
R25: Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of clinical behavioral medicine for dogs and cats. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Covers neurological and medical contributors to behavior changes.
R26: Sherman, B. L., & Mills, D. S. (2008). Canine anxieties and phobias: An update on separation anxiety and noise aversions. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 38(5), 1081–1106.

Photo By Norma Jeanne Laurette

By Norma Jeanne Laurette ​

Dogs are a highly social species making social contact with both dogs and people an important requirement. The type and amount of social interactions should be customized to the individual dog’s temperament, health, age and sociability. Well-matched dog-dog play can provide valuable mental stimulation, exercise and social experiences, while dog-human interactions and visits to dog-friendly public places and businesses can add socialization and variety to routines. ​

​While daily walks are part of this category, physical enrichment goes way beyond basic exercise. Off-leash exploration in secured areas allows natural behaviours such as investigating, sniffing and foraging. Tug, flirt pole and fetch games add play and excitement, while swimming and climbing provides new challenges for the body. Structured hikes and parkour can keep dogs engaged both mentally and physically. For those unfamiliar with parkour, it’s a physical activity that involves exploring urban areas where dogs can climb, balance on and jump over objects found around a city or town such as but not limited to benches, ledges and low fences. It’s always important to match your activities with the dog’s breed, health and age to avoid injury or overexertion R7.

Physical care exercises such as handling and grooming build trust while teaching the dog to enjoy real life experiences such as visits to your veterinarian or groomer, while cuddling and massage promotes relaxation and bonding R6. For dogs with fear issues, passive exposure to other dogs and people at a safe distance can help promote mental stimulation, improve resilience and self-control.

​Feeding enrichment can turn mealtime into an enjoyable and mentally stimulating experience. Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, stuffed, frozen Kongs and nylabones, lick mats and scatter feeding all allow dogs to forage, use their noses, paws and brains to access food. Do it yourself enrichment options such as hiding food in rolled towels and small cardboard boxes or tubes, or hiding it around a room or in your yard will encourage problem solving and mimic natural foraging. These activities can help reduce anxiety, slow down eating and increase focus R9. For those raising puppies, extending feeding times can keep a puppy occupied and provide guardians with much-needed breaks.

​Stimulating the senses through sight, sound, smell and touch can greatly enhance a dog’s quality of life. Scent trails using treats or safe essential oils provide sniffing opportunities that lower heart rate and increase wellbeing R5. Sound desensitization with recorded noises can help dogs become habituated to stressful sounds, while appropriate music can have a calming affect. Walking on various textures, chasing bubbles, hiding toys in digging pits filled with sand or finding treats hidden in shredded paper can all add sensory variety R2.

​For seniors, disabled dogs or dogs recovering from illness, injury or surgery, gentle massage, passive scent work that can be performed sitting or lying down and low-impact puzzle toys can be ideal substitutes for physical exercise.

​An effective enrichment plan does not have to be expensive or time-consuming, even 15 minutes a day can make a big difference R1. Rotate your activities and toys to maintain novelty and track your dog’s preferences to adjust your plan as required. Not all enrichment is suitable for every dog as some puzzles frustrate rather than challenge, some may be too easy for some dogs and social settings may be overwhelming for fearful or reactive dogs. Observe your dog’s body language and adjust your activities accordingly R8.

Enrichment is especially valuable when physical activity is restricted, during bad weather or stressful life events. In shelters, enrichment is often used to reduce anxiety, improve wellbeing and promote adoptability R3. At home, it builds stronger bonds and produces more relaxed, confident and happy dogs.

Canine enrichment should never be considered just a luxury but instead an important aspect of caring for our dogs’ that addresses emotional, physical and cognitive wellbeing. By providing a variety of engaging activities suitable for our dogs’ natural instincts, we can help prevent behaviour issues, strengthen our bond and improve our dogs’ quality of life. Every dog deserves the opportunity to think, learn, sniff, play and engage with its environment. By using creativity to meet our dog’s needs, canine enrichment can become one of the most rewarding aspects of our dog’s lives.