Many pets show signs of anxiety in the presence of loud and repetitive noises. We’ve previously shared our guide to identifying the signs of anxiety and fear in your pet and now, with the first celebrations including fireworks just around the corner, you’ll find out top tips to ensure your pet are safe and comfortable around Bonfire Night.
Remember, these tips are just as useful for the Christmas and festive season, all the way through to the New Year.
Top tips for dogs:
1. Walk your dog early to ensure they are back indoors before the fireworks begin
2. Make sure all outside windows are doors are safely closed in case your pet tries to run away
3. Make a den so your dog has somewhere they feel safe and secure:
Den marking tips for dogs:
- Make the den at least a couple of weeks before the expected fireworks to allow time for familiarisation
- Choose a room your dog is used to and preferably one you will be in during firework times
- Use bedding they already have so it has a familiar smell
- A puppy crate is an ideal starting point if you have one
- If you don’t have a crate, an enclosed area of the room is helpful, for example a gap between the sofa and the wall
- Use blankets to cover the den to create an enclosed and darkened area
4. Close curtains to reduce the impact of flashes
5. Put the TV or radio on to drown out the noise of fireworks
6. Make tasty treats or toys available as a distraction
7. Don’t respond to the noise of fireworks yourself
8. Stay calm: try to ignore any reactions your dog makes to the fireworks – they may see this as a sign that you are worried about the noise yourself
9. Consider using a natural calming product available from your vets – ask our team here at D&T Veterinary Centre for more details
10. If your dog shows significant signs of anxiety, feel free to arrange a visit(link to request an appointment form) to the vets to discuss all the options to make sure they are as calm as possible.
Top tips for cats:
1. Make sure your cat is microchipped to increase the chance that you will be reunited if they do get scared and bolt
2. Make sure all outside windows, doors and catflaps are safely closed before the fireworks begin
3. Provide a litter tray in a quiet area of the house. Do this well before the days fireworks or parties are expected so they become familiar with it
4. Close curtains to reduce the impact of flashes
5. Put the TV or radio on to drown out the noise of fireworks
6. Don’t disturb your cat if they find somewhere to hide when the fireworks are going off.
7. Cats find a good hiding space comforting
8. Try to ignore any reactions your cat makes to the fireworks – they may see this as a sign that you are worried about the noise yourself
9. Consider using a natural calming product- ask our team here at D&T Veterinary Centre for more details
10. If your cat shows significant signs of anxiety, feel free to arrange a visit with our team to the vets to discuss all the options to make sure they are as calm as possible.
If you have any questions or queries relating to your pets and anxiety please contact us on 01889 582023.
