Bonfire Night
The 5 November is just around the corner, and while it’s an enjoyable time for most of us, particularly the children, it is a very frightening and stressful time for our furry companions. In an attempt to alleviate some of their stresses and the anxiety that they feel, there are plenty of precautions or steps you can take.
For your dogs, ensure their last walk of the day is in daylight to avoid the chance of seeing or hearing any fireworks while you are out.
For your cats, if they are wanderers, get them home and safe early and well before daylight goes. Or, keep them in for a few days. By law your dogs have to be microchipped but ensure your cats are too. The noise and flashes from fireworks could cause them to run away and hide.
If your pet has a favourite and secure place in the house, ensure they have complete access to it without closed doors. If your dog uses a crate as a den, cover it with blankets and towels to try to aid noise reduction. For any pets in cages or hutches again, cover them and add more straw bedding to insulate but ensure there is a gap in any covers for them to look out. Consider bringing outdoor pets indoors. If you can’t, keep checking on them.
Feed your pets their dinner before the fireworks start as stress levels may deter them from eating. Once you are locked in for the night ensure all your windows and curtains are closed and turn the TV or radio up a little higher to try to minimise the sounds from outside. For the evenings around Bonfire Night, Classic FM have pet specific shows where the music they play is very soothing for them. I personally find that Classic FM works generally year round for our dogs.
Ensure you have something they love to hand e.g. a favourite toy, a ball or some tasty treats so that if they are still able to hear any fireworks you may be able to distract them to keep their focus on you. You could try a Licky Mat, a Kong or a Snuffle Mat. Your dog may show signs of stress or that they are anxious by panting excessively, drooling, shaking, yawning and putting their tail between their legs. Your dog may pace until he/she has found a safe place. Once they have you should leave them, offering cuddles only if they want them. Some of your clothes with your scent could be added to their safe place once they are settled. Give praise once they are calm.
There are also a variety of anti-stress items and medications such as Feliway and Adaptil which are available, but please speak to your registered Veterinary Surgery for their recommendation.
And remember that the 5 November often starts at the end of October and generally goes through until after the 5 November so be prepared to take these precautions whenever you need to during that period. And don’t forget that Diwali closes follows Bonfire Night.
And then I’m afraid, it’s repeat for New Year’s Eve.
