When Fireworks Stretch the Readiness Web™: How to Support Dogs Through Stress

For many dogs, fireworks season can be deeply unsettling. It is rarely just the noise itself that causes distress, but the way those sudden, unpredictable sounds affect the dog’s whole system: their emotions, body, and environment.

This is where the Readiness Web™ helps us to understand what is really happening.

Understanding the Readiness Web™

The Readiness Web™ is a way of looking at the dog as a whole being, not as a collection of behaviours to manage. Each strand of the web represents an area that contributes to the dog’s ability to cope and feel safe: physical comfort, emotional wellbeing, environment, sensory input, nutrition, rest, movement, and the relationship they share with their caregiver.

When one strand comes under pressure, the others have to take more of the strain. A sudden bang may pull on the sensory strand, but if the dog is already tired, sore, or unsettled, their whole web can wobble. Recognising this helps us shift from trying to fix fear to supporting the dog’s system.

Why Fireworks Have Such an Impact

Fireworks are sudden, intense, and unpredictable. They bring together overwhelming sensory input, changes in routine, and often heightened emotion within the household. Dogs do not experience these sounds and lights in isolation. They feel them through the state of their own body and through the emotional tone of the people around them.

When we think in terms of the Readiness Web™, it becomes clear why “just playing music” or “just giving a chew” might not be enough. We need to support multiple strands at once: sensory, emotional, environmental, relational, and physical.

Strengthening the Web

There is no single right approach, but a few guiding principles help keep the web steady.

Stay close
Your presence is one of the strongest stabilising strands. Plan to be at home with your dog if possible. 

Take walks and toileting breaks earlier in the day so there is no pressure to go out once the fireworks start.

For dogs who may need to toilet later, consider providing an indoor option such as a puppy pad, artificial grass tray, or litter tray setup. This helps them stay inside where they feel safe.

Offer calm information
Speak to your dog in a steady, reassuring tone. Acknowledge the noises rather than pretending they are not there: “Yes, that was a loud one. I heard it too. You are safe.” This helps create predictability and builds trust.

Steady the environment
Close curtains and windows to soften light and sound. Switch on outside lights to reduce flashes.

Some dogs benefit from gentle, consistent background noise such as a fan, white noise, or rhythmic music, which can make the bangs feel less sudden. Others prefer a quieter space. Notice what your dog chooses and follow their lead.

Create comfort
Gather blankets, duvets, or cushions to create a soft, enclosed-feeling space that absorbs sound. Allow your dog to move freely and choose where to settle. Choice itself supports the Readiness Web™.

Support the nervous system
Breathe slowly yourself. Take a long inhale, a small extra sip of air, then exhale with a soft sigh. Your calm breathing helps theirs.

If your dog enjoys touch, slow circular movements (TTouch style) can soothe the nervous system. If not, your quiet presence is enough.

Involve your vet when needed
For dogs who struggle deeply, situational medication can make the difference between coping and distress. 

Avoid sedatives that immobilise without calming. In some cases, anti-inflammatory or pain support may also help, particularly if the dog already experiences physical discomfort.

Beyond a Single Night

Fireworks often span several weeks, not just one night. Maintain calm, predictable routines with plenty of rest and low-pressure activities. Each small act of steadiness helps the web recover.