According to the RSPCA, 45% of dogs display signs of fear at the sound of fireworks and cats and other animals find this time of year extremely distressing too. It is particularly important to keep your pet safe and happy during this potentially stressful season; ignoring their fear could result in negative incidents such as aggressive, defensive behaviour or even a pet running away.
Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to minimise the trauma your pet goes through:
10 top tips to reduce pet stress from fireworks:
- Do not take your pet to a fireworks display
- Keep your pet indoors in the evening (walk dogs during the day)
- Try to behave as normally as possible, dogs in particular, will pick up on your anxiety and changes in routine
- Feed your pet before fireworks start, as once they do, your pet may be too unsettled to eat
- Make sure there is somewhere your pet can hide if they want to e.g. under furniture or in a cupboard (this is particularly important for cats). Do not try and coax pets out of hiding places as this will make them more stressed.
- Close all windows and curtains and play music to muffle the sounds of fireworks and minimise sudden flashes of light
- Have the TV or radio on to distract your pet
- Be sensitive to your pet’s needs. Comfort your pet if it helps them to relax, or leave them alone if they withdraw. Ensure they are safe and are not likely to hurt themselves.
- Never be cross with your pet while it is scared
- If your pet lives outside (e.g. rabbits or Guinea pigs), either bring the cage inside into a quiet room, a shed or garage, or partly cover the cage with blankets to muffle loud noises. Ensure the animals can still see out. Add extra bedding to the cage so the animals have something to burrow into
If you have a particularly anxious animal, there are longer term actions you can take in preparation including behavioural therapy and pheromone diffusers. Remain extremely sensitive to the needs of your pet.
For information on firstaidforpets please visit https://firstaidforpets.net and book onto one of our practical or online dog first aid courses.