Keeping Your Dog Calm and Safe on Bonfire Night

Becki Gude

Ba(hons) PACT ABTC-ati

Bonfire Night can be a fun and exciting time for people, full of gatherings, fireworks and of course bonfires in all shapes and sizes! But for many dogs, it’s one of the scariest nights of the year. The sudden unpredictable bangs, flashes of light, and strange smells can be overwhelming, even for dogs who usually seem confident. As an experienced dog trainer, I get asked a lot about how to help dogs cope at this time of year, and here are some of my tips for helping your dog through the next few days.

Bonefire night can be a very difficult time for our dogs <3

Start Preparing Early

If you already know your dog struggles with fireworks, it’s best to start preparing as early as you can. I often recommend playing firework sounds quietly in the background while your dog is doing something they enjoy - eating, playing, or relaxing.

Keep the volume low to begin with, just enough for them to notice, and pair the sounds with yummy treats and praise. Gradually increase the volume over time, as long as your dog stays comfortable. The goal is to help them learn that the sounds aren’t anything to worry about and good things happen when they hear it.

Even a few short practice sessions before the big weekend can make a difference.

Create a Safe Space

Make sure your dog has somewhere quiet and comfortable to retreat to when the fireworks start. This could be their crate with a blanket draped over it, a favourite corner in the living room, or your bedroom if that’s where they feel most secure.

Add familiar bedding and toys, close the curtains to block out the flashes, and play soft music or white noise to help muffle the noise outside. Some dogs prefer to hide away, while others want to stay close to their people - both are perfectly fine. Let them choose what feels safest for them.

Keep Them Indoors and Secure

Take your dog for a good walk earlier in the day, well before dusk. Once the fireworks begin, keep them indoors and make sure all doors, windows, and gates are secure. Even normally calm dogs can panic and try to escape when frightened.

It’s also a good idea to double-check your dog’s microchip details are up to date, just in case they do manage to slip out.

Stay Calm Yourself

Dogs are incredibly good at picking up on our emotions. If you’re tense or anxious, your dog will sense it. Try to stay calm and act normally.

If your dog comes to you for comfort, that’s absolutely fine. Contrary to old advice, you won’t reinforce their fear by doing so. I always tell clients to think of it like comforting a child during a thunderstorm: your calm presence helps them feel safe. Speak softly, move slowly, and let your dog decide how much contact they want.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask Your Vet for Help

There are lots of products designed to help anxious dogs, such as pheromone diffusers, natural calming supplements, and pressure wraps like the Thundershirt or Hush Muff. These can make a real difference, especially when used alongside good preparation.

But if your dog shows signs of real panic - trembling, panting, pacing, drooling, or trying desperately to hide, climb, or escape - please speak to your vet. There are safe, short-term medications that can make Bonfire Night much easier for them to cope with.

And it’s so important to understand that medication isn’t a last resort. For some dogs, fireworks trigger a genuine panic response, and these treatments can prevent long-term anxiety from taking hold. In my experience, using medication when it’s needed is one of the kindest decisions an owner can make.

Keep Things Calm All Weekend

Bonfire night falls on a Wednesday this year, but fireworks rarely happen on just one night, so it’s best to keep your routine as calm and consistent as possible over the whole weekend. Stick to regular feeding and walking times, keep your dog indoors after dark, and continue offering reassurance and comfort when they need it.

A few small adjustments and a bit of planning can make all the difference.

Every dog is different, and what works for one may not suit another. Some just need a bit of extra reassurance, while others may need more structured support or medication to help them feel safe. The key is to plan ahead, stay calm, and be patient. With the right approach and support from your vet or trainer if they need it - Bonfire Night can become just another cosy evening indoors. Every dog deserves to feel safe and secure, no matter what’s going on outside.

Becki Gude

Ba(hons) PACT ABTC-ati

Surrey Canine Corner

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Dog Daycare

So, you're considering doggy daycare. Perhaps you're heading back to the office, planning a trip, or simply want your dog to enjoy some social interaction during the day. Understandably, entrusting your beloved companion to someone else can be daunting. Are they safe? Will they be happy? What if they miss you too much? (Spoiler: they’ll likely be far too busy playing to notice!)

As a qualified trainer who has run a home-from-home dog daycare for a decade, I understand these concerns. I’ve welcomed all kinds of dogs into my care and witnessed how the right environment can help even the most shy dog build confidence and thrive. I’ve also seen that not every dog is suited to a daycare setting—and that’s perfectly okay!

This guide will help you walk through he process of finding a daycare that’s safe, enriching, and well-matched to your dog’s temperament.

Keeping them on their toes! (or bums..)

Why Consider Dog Daycare?

Before we explore how to choose the right daycare, let’s consider why you might want one to begin with. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Socialisation: Dogs can form healthy relationships with other dogs and humans, under professional supervision.

• Exercise: Plenty of physical activity, tailored to their breed and energy levels, can help curb boredom and destructive behaviours.

• Mental stimulation: The best daycares provide enrichment that challenges dogs mentally, not just physically.

• Separation support: Regular interaction and structured activity can ease anxiety in dogs who struggle with being left alone.

  
  

That said, it’s important to acknowledge that daycare isn’t the right fit for every dog.

When Daycare Might Not Be Suitable

Some dogs find group environments overwhelming. If your dog is highly nervous, fearful, or becomes overstimulated in the presence of other dogs, daycare might not be for you. For these dogs, alternative arrangements - such as solo dog walking, enrichment visits at home, or working with a behaviourist - can be far more beneficial and are recommended.

A responsible daycare provider should assess whether your dog is comfortable and appropriate for group care. Forcing a dog into an unsuitable setting can be counterproductive, increasing stress and potentially leading to behavioural issues.

NOTE: If your dog is reactive to other dogs, trust me when I say, daycare is not the place to socialise them and will not help with their reactivity.

Even if you find the perfect daycare and things seem to go smoothly at first, it can take time for a dog to fully adjust to a new routine. If at any point you feel your dog isn’t enjoying themselves, it’s perfectly okay to explore other options - even after they've already started or been there for years! A dog’s social preferences can change as they grow, and that’s completely normal :)

Lyra the Golden and Bo the Briard having a mucky catch up

Step 1: Research Your Options

A quick search for "dog daycare near me" will offer a starting point, but I recommend digging a little deeper. Seek providers who emphasise staff qualifications, behaviour-led care, and a calm, structured environment. A great daycare should have one member of staff to every six dogs.

It is also a legal obligation for any daycare (no matter how small!) in the UK to have either a commercial or “home from home” dog daycare and/or home boarding license. If someone is offering to take your dog for the day (or overnight) for payment, this counts as daycare.

Ask to see their license!

What to Look for in Reviews:

• Are dogs reported to come home relaxed and content? Dogs returning home “exhausted” is not always a good thing!

• Do clients mention skilled, compassionate staff?

• Are there mentions of behaviour-based or individualised care?

• Any concerns raised about injuries, overcrowding, or lack of communication?

Step 2: Take a Tour of the Facility

It’s essential to view the environment before sending your dog. Many home-based daycares (like mine) operate by appointment when spaces are available only, but will gladly arrange a tour in person.

Things to Observe:

• Cleanliness: Is it tidy and odour-free?

• Indoor and outdoor: Are there indoor areas for sheltering, keeping warm/cool and sleeping? and outdoor spaces/gardens for toileting and exercise?

• Atmosphere: Does it feel safe and suitable for your dog’s personality?

• Supervision: Are staff attentive and trained in canine body language?

• Energy levels: Are dogs engaged calmly or is the atmosphere chaotic?

  
  

Look for staff who use positive reinforcement and maintain a low-stress environment. Behaviour qualifications and ongoing training are definite advantages.

Step 3: Ask the Right Questions

A good daycare will welcome your questions—it shows you’re committed to your dog’s wellbeing.

Key Questions to Ask:

• Do they have a license and the correct insurance? (it is against the law in the UK to look after dogs for profit on a private premises without a valid license from the local council)

• How are dogs assessed before being accepted?

• How are playgroups formed? (Consider size, temperament, and energy.)

• How many dogs do they take per day?

• What is the staff-to-dog ratio?

• Are up-to-date vaccinations and parasite prevention required?

• What is the policy on neutering and bitches in season?

• What behaviours are accepted or not accepted?

• What training or behavioural experience do staff have?

• How are rest and enrichment structured throughout the day?

  
  

At my own daycare, I ensure dogs receive periods of calm, structured downtime—it's a crucial part of their day and prevents them from getting grumpy when tired!

Surrey Canine Corner Daycare Dogs are all temperament tested and trialled before they join - and just look at those grins 🐾

Step 4: Do a Trial Session

Once you’ve chosen a daycare that aligns with your expectations, begin with a short trial (any good daycare will have this as part of their joining policy anyway!). A half-day session, followed by a full day trial allows your dog to adjust gradually without being overwhelmed.

As someone who is constantly watching a newbie's behaviour, I look for:

• How easily a dog settles in

• Whether they seek interaction with myself or the other dogs, or need space throughout the day

• Their behaviour when playing (is it shy or rough? Do they get overstimulated quickly?)

• Their demeanour upon pick up and drop off - wiggly and relaxed is ideal.

  
  

Red Flags to Watch Out For

🚩No health or vaccination policy 🚩 No valid license or insurance 🚩 Unstructured or chaotic play 🚩 Use of aversive training techniques (inc prong collars or e-collars) 🚩 Overcrowded or understaffed environment 🚩 Poor communication or unwillingness to discuss concerns 🚩 Unclear policy on neutering and bitches in season 🚩 TOO MANY DOGS 🚩

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right dog daycare is a personal decision and should reflect your dog’s individual temperament and needs. A good daycare will provide structure, engagement, and support your dog’s development in a safe, controlled environment. However, not every dog thrives in a daycare setting. If your dog becomes overly anxious or overstimulated, other options such as solo walks, one-on-one enrichment, or time with a trusted sitter may be more appropriate.

Your instincts are a valuable guide. Take your time, ask the right questions, and prioritise your dog’s wellbeing above all.

If you’ve had a positive (or not-so-positive) daycare experience, feel free to share in the comments below. Your story might just help another dog owner make the right choice. 🐾

Bettie enjoying the paddling pool 🐾

Becki Gude

Ba(hons) PACT-KSA ABTC-ATI

Surrey Canine Corner

https://www.surreycaninecorner.co.uk/

Canine Gut Health and Behaviour: Why Your Dog's Gut is Known as the "Second Brain" (and Why It Matters for Training!)

Heard the saying, "Trust your gut"?

Well, it turns out there's a lot of truth to that, especially when it comes to our furry friends! The gut isn't just about digesting kibble or the evening's leftovers off your plate; it's a sophisticated system often dubbed the "second brain." But what does that really mean, and why should you care? Can your dog's diet really affect their behaviour and training?

Let's look into the fascinating world of the gut-brain connection in dogs and see how it can affect their overall well-being and ability to learn.

The Gut's Own Brain! The Enteric Nervous System:

First off, we have the Enteric Nervous System (ENS). This network of about 100 million neurons lines your dog's digestive tract, from the throat to the rectum. It’s like having a mini-brain in the gut that manages digestion without needing help from the brain in their head! This means everything from moving food along to regulating blood flow is taken care of by the gut itself. 

Gut Feelings Are Real!

Here’s where it gets super interesting: the gut produces a ton of neurotransmitters. You've probably heard of serotonin, the "feel-good" chemical. Well, about 95% of it is made right there in the gut! (2) This neurotransmitter, along with others like dopamine and GABA (a calming chemical), plays a big role in regulating mood and behaviour. So, when your pup is happy and relaxed, their gut health might just be part of the reason why.

The Mighty Microbiota

Now let's talk about the gut microbiota – the trillions of microorganisms living in your dog's gut. They're not just there for no reason, they're busy producing chemicals that keep the brain and gut in contact and working together. This constant communication happens through pathways like the vagus nerve (the longest cranial nerve that runs from the head through the abdomen) and the immune system.

Studies have shown that when the balance of these gut microbes gets thrown off (a condition called dysbiosis), it can lead to problems like anxiety, depression, and even neurological disorders (2, 4, 5). Dogs that are anxious or unwell may find it significantly harder to learn and make new associations, which can make training a real challenge. If your dog is struggling to pick up new skills or seems reluctant to engage in training, it is incredibly important to consider their gut health and diet amongst other factors that could be influencing their behaviour.

Healing from the Inside Out

So, how can we help keep our dogs' guts—and by extension, their brains—healthy? It often starts with their diet. Including prebiotics and probiotics can make a big difference. These can be found in certain high-quality dog foods or as supplements, but always check with your vet first.

Practical Tips for a Happy Gut (and Pup!)

1. Feed a Balanced Diet: High-quality commercial diets from brands such as Carnilove or vet-approved homemade meals can provide the nutrients your dog needs.
   

2. Add Prebiotics and Probiotics: These help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Some prebiotics may be more suitable for your dog than others, so make sure to get your vet’s advice before introducing new supplements!
   

3. Monitor Stress Levels: Stress can affect gut health (8), so keeping your dog’s environment calm and stress-free is essential.

Understanding the gut-brain connection helps us see just how interconnected our dogs' physical and mental health really are. So next time you see your dog happily wagging their tail, remember: a healthy gut helps make a happy, thriving pup, which makes training a whole lot easier!

By Becki Gude

BA(hons) PACT ABTC-ATI

Training & Behaviour consultant for CarniloveUK

http://www.surreycaninecorner.co.uk

References

1. Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: the emerging biology of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21750565/
   

2. Appleton, j (2018) The Gut-Brain Axis: Influence of Microbiota on Mood and Mental Health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6469458/
   

3. Gershon, M. D., & Tack, J. (2007). The serotonin signaling system: from basic understanding to drug development for functional GI disorders. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17241888/
   

4. Yano, J. M., Yu, K., Donaldson, G. P. et al. (2015). Indigenous bacteria from the gut microbiota regulate host serotonin biosynthesis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25860609/
   

5. Cryan, J. F., & Dinan, T. G. (2012). Mind-altering microorganisms: the impact of the gut microbiota on brain and behaviour. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22968153/
   

6. Bercik, P., Denou, E., Collins, J., et al. (2011). The intestinal microbiota affect central levels of brain-derived neurotropic factor and behavior in mice. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S001650851100607X
   

7. Wallace, C. J., & Milev, R. (2017). The effects of probiotics on depressive symptoms in humans: a systematic review. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28239408/
   

8. Konturek P et al (2011). Stress and the gut: pathophysiology, clinical consequences, diagnostic approach and treatment options: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22314561/