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Fireworks can mean traumatic evenings for pets, filled with sudden loud noises, startling bangs and frightening flashes. Across the year, on nights such as Bonfire Night, Diwali and New Year’s Eve, many of us might be looking forward to a night of festivities, but we also know that our four-legged friends won’t share the same excitement. To help make these events less stressful for our doggy friends, read our top tips on what to do when fireworks are being let off nearby. Cat parents, take note. A lot of these tips can apply to kitty cats, also.
"Build a warm and cosy space filled with your pet’s favourite toys, chews and snacks"
CREATE A SAFE SPACE FOR YOUR DOG
Build a warm and cosy space just for your dog, so that they have somewhere to hide when fireworks go off outside. Fill it with their favourite toys, chews and treats (ensuring that you’re still following the appropriate feeding guidelines for your dog). Some dog food and treats contain ingredients that may help soothe pooches. For instance, our Bedtime Biscuits contain chamomile, known for its calming properties.
If your dog is especially nervous, plugging a pheromone diffuser into the same room may help calm their nerves.
BREAK THE ROUTINE
While we would usually recommend keeping to a regular schedule, if you know the evening will be disrupted by fireworks, make sure cats and dogs are fed early and take your pups out for a walk while it's still bright, before the bangs begin.
STAY INSIDE
Although it might be an obvious tip, don’t take your pooch to a firework show, and don’t leave them outside during. Make sure to keep all doors and windows closed so that pets are kept safely inside. Close the curtains, turn on the lights and play calming music to drown out the noise as best you can.
PERSONALISE YOUR PET’S COLLAR
By law your pet should be microchipped. Make sure your information on it is updated so that it can help locate your pet back home if they get spooked and run off.
This is also a great chance to jazz up your pet's collar and get them a shiny new ID tag, engraved clearly with your contact details.
SAFELY INTRODUCE THEM TO THE BIG BANGS
Although fireworks will always be distressing for most pets, preparing them for what’s to come may help them understand that they are safe. You can do so by showing your dog a recording of fireworks in a calm and relaxed environment, so that they know there’s nothing to be worried about. Give them a treat once the recording is over to help reiterate positive association.
RELAX!
If you’re relaxed, it’ll help your pet relax too. Play with your furry friend if they come to you for cuddles, but if they want to stay in the safety of their little hideaway you have created that’s fine too. Never tell them off if they’re whining, barking or, for the cat owners, meowing, as this may increase their stress.
CONSIDER ANTI-ANXIETY MEDICINE FOR YOUR DOG
There are some dogs that still exhibit extreme anxiety despite all you do, and as a last resort your vet will be able to prescribe the most suitable medication for your pet. Book an appointment well in advance of the holiday so that you can prepare the right medication for them. You can also discuss trying dog calming treats, supplements or dog anxiety vests.
Don’t give anything to your pet without consulting with your vet first.
The information in this article is intended as a guide to help pets and pet parents on their journey together. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for professional advice from a vet, behaviourist, trainer or other professional. We encourage all pet parents to consult with their vet and/or behaviourist to ensure their pet’s specific needs are met.
