A recent survey by the RSPCA revealed that 45% of dog’s display signs of fear at the sound of fireworks. Similarly, cats and other animals find this time of year extremely distressing. 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 in a pet running away.
The following are signs your pet may be stressed:
Growling, barking, flattened ears, tucking their tail between their legs, cowering, lip licking and raised hair on the back of their necks.
If they are showing further signs of:
Destructiveness, aggression, licking and chewing, diarrhoea and a change in eating habits – you should talk to your Vet to rule out any other underlying cause and get their advice.
The following are simple steps you can take to minimise the trauma experienced by your pet:
- 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, will pick up on your anxiety and changes in routine
- Feed your pet before fireworks start, as if they become unsettled they may be reluctant 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 and turn up the volume if necessary to drown out the fireworks.
- 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.
- A new toy, chew or blanket can prove a welcome distraction and comforter.
- 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
- Make sure your pet is in a safe, secure environment which it won’t be able to escape from – block off cat flaps, shut dogs in rooms before opening the front door, secure all cages etc.
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.
It is strongly advised that you attend a practical or online First Aid course to understand what to do in a medical emergency. First Aid for life provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for medical or Veterinary advice. First Aid for Life is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken based on this information. www.firstaidforlife.org.uk, www.firstaidforpets.net , www.onlinefirstaid.com