TIP 1: MAKE SURE THEY ARE MICROCHIPPED

Scared pets tend to run and in fear they will not hesitate to keep running! If they DO escape and are microchipped you can be sure you’ll be reunited again.

TIP 2: DESENSITISE YOUR DOGS AND CATS

If your pet is afraid of the loud noises, start desensitisation therapy as early as you can. Try downloading firework sound effects from Dogs Trust and play them very, very quietly. Reward your pet for staying calm, and over weeks or even months, gradually increase the volume so they get used to the sound.

TIP 3: TRY CALMING TREATMENT

There are a wide range of herbal and nutritional calmers on the market; some of which we stock and can recommend. Zylkene is an example of this and can be very useful to aid your pet during fireworks season.

TIP 4: USE PHEROMONES

There are pheromone products available for cats and dogs such as Feliway and Adaptil. They are very effective at reducing stress and anxiety levels. Start using them at least 2-3 weeks before fireworks season starts if possible.

TIP 5: KEEP YOUR ANIMALS SAFELY INDOORS

Not only will it stop them escaping (and then potentially coming to harm), but it will also muffle any scary sounds and frightening lights. It can be tricky to keep pets indoors if they are not used to it, but in the long run it is the safest method to keep them calmer!

TIP 6: BUILD A NICE NEST

A suitable nest or den to hide in will help your pet feel safe. This is especially important for dogs and cats, but also applies to rabbits and small furies kept in open cages or hutches. Make sure they can hide themselves away when the displays start!

TIP 7: LIGHTPROOF AND SOUNDPROOF HUTCHES, CAGES AND AVIARIES

Small pets in cages or hutches should also be brought inside — or at least, away from sight and sound of the fireworks. A large hutch can usually be moved into a garage or shed, or into a darker area of the garden if this is not possible.

TIP 8: KEEP TO A NORMAL ROUTINE

Pets are very sensitive to changes in routine, so as much as possible, keep everything the same. You really don’t need any extra stress — and neither do they!

TIP 9: DON’T REWARD FEARFUL BEHAVIOUR

Of course, if your dog is afraid, your cat is scared, or your rabbit is terrified, it’s only natural to try and comfort them. However, you need to be careful. Excessive fuss and treats can reinforce the fearful behaviour — as they learn this is what they need to do to get your attention! As a rule of thumb, make a moderate fuss of them if they come to you, but don’t go to them, or dramatically change the way you react. Remember, pets can pick up on our stress levels as well as vice versa, so it can spiral out of control!

TIP 10: TALK TO US

We are here to help and can offer advice and tips in the first instance. We are able to prescribe calming medication, or discuss alternative treatments. Book an appointment with us today.