Unfortunately, up to 45% of pets will show different levels of fear and anxiety at this time of year.
Firework phobias can be traumatic for pets (and owners) which is why we’ve written a short blog on our top tips you can take to help ease stress.
1. Avoid letting your dog or cat outdoors at times when fireworks are likely to go off
Get those walks in early, well before dark and make sure you’re back home with all windows and doors shut to ensure there’s no escapees. If your dog is particularly scared of fireworks, you may want to feed them early.
2. Create a ‘safe place’ or den in your home
A table draped with a blanket is a great option, or if your dog is used to being in a crate, cover it and leave it open with their favourite blankets and toys inside. Don’t shut your dog in the crate, as this can cause more stress for them.
Give your dog options so they can choose where to hide. It’s a good idea to put their safe den in a room where they feel comfortable, perhaps near you and ideally away from any windows.
Your dog may be most comfortable and happy curled up in their usual spot with you rather than a designated ‘safe place’, so allow them access to all safe areas of the house. Don’t confine your dog to one room as they may hurt themselves trying to get out, particularly if they become overly-stressed.
Cats can also benefit from being allowed to hide away in a quiet spot in the home, so just allow them to go and do whatever they want.
3. The sudden bang of fireworks can be masked by keeping a radio or TV on
Classical music can help to calm dogs in general, and music with quite a heavy bass will be ideal for masking bangs when played at a volume that they’re happy with.
Classic FM, together with the RSPCA play Pet Classics on the evening of 5th November between 5-9pm to help with anxious pets. We recommend tuning in and chilling with your pets.
4. Draw the curtains and pull the blinds
It’s not only the sound of fireworks that can cause distress, but also the lights and flashes can affect them too. Try to leave lights on indoors to reduce the impact of the flashes.
5. Provide dogs with a long-lasting chew to help keep them distracted
Consider a long lasting chew, a stuffed kong or a licky mat to keep your dog distracted for the evening.
6. Make sure your pets are microchipped
In the worst-case scenario that your pet does escape the house whilst fireworks are going off, if they’ve been chipped this is the quickest way to ensure they’ll be reunited with their owner. Always make sure the contact details are kept up-to-date .
It’s now a legal requirement that your cat or dog is microchipped.
7. Make sure your home and garden are as escape-proof as possible
Ensure windows and doors, including cat flaps are properly shut. Check your garden for any escape routes and make sure these are closed off as pets will sometimes run off if scared.
For rabbits and guinea pigs, make sure their hutch is securely shut-up early for the night and give them extra bedding for burrowing in.
8. Act normal
Our pets will notice if you’re behaving unusually. Following your dog around or being overly affectionate may cause them to feel nervous or confused, but playing with them and their favourite toy will help to keep things as normal as possible. The more you change your behaviour, the more anxious they may become.
9. In some cases, calming pheromones can help
Diffusers and sprays such as Adaptil (for dogs) or Feliway (for cats) and Pet Remedy can help provide a more calm environment for your dog, and supplements such as Zylkene or Calmex may be useful. These can be useful alongside all of the above.
Our pets will often act out of character when frightened, so it’s important not to punish this behaviour. Some will want to hide and be left alone, and others may need comfort – do whatever is right for your pet.
If you’re unsure how to manage your pet’s behaviour during this stressful time, contact your vet now. They can help put a plan in place with you to make it as stress-free as possible.
