Goldendoodle Terrified at Fireworks—Hearts Melt at Owner's New Plan
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After noticing how anxious her dog was about the fireworks, this woman went the extra mile to ensure he had a safe space to relax in—and she couldn't resist joining him.
In years gone by, Jovita Aranda's goldendoodle, named Luca, wasn't too bothered by fireworks and they didn't appear to cause him much stress. Although, Aranda, of Oregon, told Newsweek that he's "always been sensitive to loud noises," and he can be very timid at times.
Things changed on New Year's Eve last year, when he really struggled to cope with all the fireworks going off at midnight. Aranda knew there would be plenty more on July 4, so she made sure to be prepared this time around.
"Originally, I built him his own little den over his bed on the floor, but he was only comfortable if I was sitting right next to him," Aranda said. "That's when I decided to build him a bigger den, using our couch as a base and something we can cozy up on together. He had all his favorite things inside, snacks, his lambchop, and of course me."
Jovita Aranda building the den for her goldendoodle on July 4.
Jovita Aranda building the den for her goldendoodle on July 4.
@memydoodsandi / TikTok
It took 30 minutes for Aranda to build the ultimate den for her and Luca, and it was worth every second. She placed a large sheet above the sofa and propped it up with a metal rod, almost creating a tent within her living room. Then she added some twinkly lights, blankets, and Luca's favorite toys.
Instead of listening nervously to the fireworks, Luca was "a lot more comfortable" inside the den and it made the night far more enjoyable. Aranda and Luca watched The Secret Life of Pets movie and then the 6-year-old goldendoodle fell asleep shortly after.
If creating a safe haven isn't an option or doesn't work, the American Kennel Club (AKC) also suggests playing white noise, leaving the TV on to mask the loud noises, walking them before the fireworks start, comforting them and offering long, slow petting strokes that can be soothing. Notably, owners should avoid seeming frantic, as the AKC notes that this can make dogs think there's something to fear.
"This is now our new routine and honestly, I'd do this for him even if he was feeling anxious and just needed some extra comfort. It was therapeutic for both of us, and anytime we spend like this, it deepens our connection and bond," Aranda continued.
The millennial dog mom shared a video of her building the den on social media (@vitothedogfather on Instagram and @memydoodsandi on TikTok) and it has delighted internet users. In the days since it was posted, the clip has generated over 14,600 views and more than 1,500 likes on TikTok at the time of writing.
The caption alongside the video reads: "He's knows I'm his safe place."
The response to the TikTok video has been overwhelmingly positive. Aranda has been inundated with kind messages, and she's heard from many fellow dog owners about what they do to help their dogs during fireworks. She told Newsweek that it was "heartwarming to read" about the lengths owners will go to for their beloved pets.
Aranda said: "Dogs love to feel connected to their humans, and they show us love every moment of the day. The best way to thank them is to give them quality time with no distractions. Taking time to play on their level, scratching behind the ears while staring into their eyes, snuggling, and comforting them when they're scared."
Internet users have praised Adarna for ensuring Luca felt safe and calm during such a difficult night.
One comment on the TikTok post read: "This is so wholesome. You're a great mama."
Another TikTok user wrote: "This is a great cuddle place. Now you can use it anytime."
While another person added: "When I come back as a dog, I want a dog mom like you."
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? We want to see the best ones! Send them in to life@newsweek.com and they could appear on our site.
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