31 October 2019 – Many animals find fireworks scary. There are a number of things you can do to help your pets deal with fireworks. By preparing in advance before fireworks start you and your pet will be better able to cope with the noises.
Here are a few tips from principal vet Mike that will hopefully help to support your pets have a firework season that is as stress-free as possible.
Dogs
Walk dogs during daylight hours
Close curtains and put on both the radio and the TV to cover all momentary silences and muffle the sound of fireworks
Create a safe haven or den where your dog can feel in control
Cats
Keep cats indoors to avoid them getting stressed during fireworks
Provide hiding places in your home
Microchip your cats in case they’re startled and escape
Small animals
Provide extra bedding so small animals can burrow in
Partly cover outside cages and pens with blankets to help with loud noises but do not cover completely
Consider bringing them indoors
Horses
The British Horse Society have some great advice to help keep your horse safe and secure during the firework season: https://www.bhs.org.uk/advice-and-information/safety-advice-and-information/common-incidents/fireworks.
Firework phobia is a treatable condition and animals don’t have to suffer such misery every year. Contact us at the practice to chat through ways that we can help your pets. 01759 373611.