Helping your pet this fireworks season

Although there won’t be the usual big organised displays this year, it is likely people will still have informal fireworks displays in their gardens.

Fireworks can be stressful for your pet. Many dogs and cats are affected by the loud bangs. Dogs may run, hide, tremble, pace, pant, refuse to eat or even try to escape to help themselves cope.  Cats may also run away, hide and refuse to eat.

Things you can do to be prepared:

• Build your dog a den – if your dog already has a safe place they run to when they are anxious, then build the den there. Otherwise build it in a snug area and cover it with blankets and bedding. If you have a cat, give them plenty of elevated hiding places.
• Try to walk your dog when it is still light as fireworks tend to begin as soon as the sun goes down.
• Use an ADAPTIL diffuser for dogs or FELIWAY Classic diffuser for cats – plug this in 2 weeks before you expect the fireworks – this will help create a calm atmosphere before the fireworks begin. Keep these plugged in until after New Year, as fireworks often continue over the festive season.

On the night:

• Close all windows, doors and curtains. 
• Lock your cat flap – this will ensure your cat isn’t able to run away if they become scared.
• Distract them – give your pet a chew, a toy or play a game with them.
• Turn on the TV or play music to muffle the sound of the fireworks.