Fireworks!

Question
QUESTION: We have a 2 1/2 yr old female Jack Russell. Recently we celebrated Canada Day, and many of our neighbours had their own fireworks in their yards. These started around the same time that we go to bed, and just like clock work we take both our Russell's out for their last business of the day. The loud bang of the fireworks caused our female Russell to shake uncontrollably. Then last night, it happened again, only I could not get her to stop shaking for hours, and also she started panting very quickly. I tried giving her water, holding onto her and petting her trying to sooth her, and nothing would work. Is there anything I can do to help her when she experiences this type of fear or anxiety?

ANSWER: That was an isolated incident.  Your dog may have acquired a strong conditioned response to that sort of noise and petting her to calm her is received as primary reinforcer...reward: good dog for being afraid.  Ignore her further reactions in the near future at night (like thunder), laugh and clap your hands, show signs that YOU are not distressed.  If you see her fear diminishing (and it should, but it might take quite a while) that's good.  if you see any further development of this fear (she won't go out at night at all) re-post.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Regarding your reply, she is already not wanting to go outside both early morning and at bedtime. (it's getting dark at these times). I will do NOTHING and see how she progresses.

Answer
Do NOTHING in so far as reacting to her distress.  However, you must do something to counter the conditioned response that is now making her afraid to go outside.  You can go outside (with dog on very long leash and still indoors, presumably hesitant to follow but given the opportunity...leave door open) sit down, eat something special, appear to be having fun.  Dog might resist at first but she may eventually (the first time) come out.  THEN heavily praise and food reward handful of cheese or hot dog, get up, observe what dog does next.  If she runs back in, let her.  Next time, she may stay out longer.  What you're doing is portraying that you, the leader, are relaxed, happy and having a party outside and she will learn that when she joins you she is rewarded.  This should soon generalize and she should go back to her normal routine, party no longer necessary.