Fireworks and our pets. Keeping your pet safe and relaxed during fireworks.

Many of us will be all too aware of the unease that bonfire night , new years eve and the surrounding period can cause our pets. It would appear that fireworks have already started in and around Sidmouth, so Jurassic Vets have compiled top tips below to help keep your pet calm and safe during this season. If you feel your pet struggles with the sounds of fireworks and you feel they may be noise averse please call us as soon as possible and we may be able to provide further advice and also have medications in stock that can help manage the situation if appropriate. Possible signs your pet is distressed because of fireworks it’s possible they’ll pace up and down and pant heavily. They may also bark or meow more than normal, tremble, hide or drool. Other signs of distress include destructiveness and soiling unexpectedly.

The days leading up to bonfire night can be hugely stressful for all pets. Dogs, in particular, are often badly affected by fireworks. Some get so scared they run off, and every year vets see pets who have been involved in road traffic accidents after being spooked by loud bangs. It is important to walk your pet during daylight hours. Also ensuring that they have their microchip details up to date as well their identification tags in case they do run off. If you notice your pet is missing please contact all veterinary practices to notify them of your pets details and where they went missing from. T

For Dogs:

* Keep your pet safe inside during the fireworks. Ensure you close all doors and windows and you could even draw the curtains to make your home as soundproof as possible and block out the bright flashes of light.

* Leaving the TV or radio on can help to cancel out some of the sounds from outside and provide familiar, calming noises for your pet. Ensure the volume is not too loud.

*Wherever possible it is advisable not to leave your pet alone in the house when they’re scared or anxious.

* Take your dog for a walk earlier in the day if cool enough. This will allow them to utilise excess energy before the evening fireworks start and may help keep them calmer and more relaxed.

* Do not punish your dog for showing fearful behaviour. If they are frightened then it is OK to comfort them. Contrary to what you will often hear it is not possible to reinforce an emotion such as fear.

* Your dog’s bed will be their usual safe haven but they may also appreciate other areas to hide such as a ‘dog den’ like an open crate with a favourite toy in or some blankets.

*Games or indoor activities can provide a welcome distraction for your dog if they are anxious.

For Cats:

* Do not try to pick up your cat if they are scared. If you attempt to restrain them, they could scratch or bite you.

* Cats will usually hide when they are scared – so ensure their favourite hiding place is accessible. Don’t be tempted to coax them out as it’s best to act normal and ignore fearful behaviour.

* Ensure you have a litter tray available in the house for the duration of the fireworks.

For Rabbits, Guinea Pigs and Small Pets:

*If your rabbit, guinea pig or small pet normally lives in an outdoor hutch then, if possible, place it in a quieter place such as a garage or even inside your home.

*Another good idea is to turn the hutch so it faces a wall or fence so your pet isn’t exposed to the bright flashes. You could also attempt to cover their enclosure in thick blankets to dampen the unusual noises.

*Make sure you give your pet extra bedding to let them burrow into to feel safer.

*Putting your pet in their hutch earlier than normal will let them settle and feel safer before the fireworks begin.

If you require any further advice or would like to chat to one of our team regarding further medical or behaviour treatment options for anxious and nervous pets please feel free to give us a call.

Below is a useful video provided by the Blue Cross: