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Top tips for keeping your pets happy and safe during fireworks season

As nights draw in, we look forward to the autumn fun of events like Halloween and Bonfire Night. Early evenings are perfect for these occasions but can be a nightmare for our pets. 

We have put together a few top tips to help your dogs get through the firework season.

There are many products and training methods available which can help if you are worried about your dog at this time of year.

Tip 1: Safety First

By law your pet should be microchipped (and your details up to date), in case they take fright and bolt. Your dog should also wear a collar and ID tag. Keep pets inside overnight.

Tip 2: Tire them out

Taking your dog for a good walk and/or playing boisterous games during daylight hours will ensure they are ready to settle down by nightfall.

Give your dog a good meal before nightfall to give a contented, full tummy.

Tip 3: Provide a den

Animals generally feel more secure in small spaces. If you cover the “den” it may help muffle the noise, as does closing curtains and keeping the television or radio on. This den should be set up at least 2-3weeks before the start of the fireworks and should be available for them at all times whether or not you are present.

Tip 4: Use of Adaptil

This is a calming pheromone product that helps to reduce anxiety. Among other ways, it can be used to help in the same area as the den to enhance the ‘safe’ feeling of that area.

Tip 5: Just act normal!

Although we do need to comfort our pets when they are fearful, it is important not to inadvertently encourage attention seeking behaviour. The best time to praise them is when they are being calm and relaxed.

Tip 6: Medication is available

Finally, some pets simply cannot cope and may need medication. If you feel your animal may be one of these cases then give us a ring to discuss this.

This questionnaire is a very useful one to determine how severely your pet is affected: www.adaptil.com/uk/Blog/Is-my-dog-scared-of-fireworks 

We may need them to come in for an appointment to check them over if they do need medication, and decide which ones are most appropriate for them. 

For more advice, give us a call or speak to your vet.