How to calm your pet during the fireworks
It’s that time of year again, loud bangs and flashing colours can frighten dogs and can go on for weeks before and after Bonfire Night. With Fireworks Night approaching us fast, try to help your pet feel more relaxed by following the SOUNDS advice.
SOUNDS acronym – actions to calm your dog
Safety: Make sure your dog is safe; gates and doors are locked and shut to prevent any escape. Dogs that are worried are more likely to try to run away.
Opinion from a vet for extra support: If your dog suffers from noise issues, be prepared to call a vet for some extra help and support for the worst of the evenings.
Undo the scary association: Try to create a positive association with the noises that worry your dog – give them something nice to chew instead to help them to relax.
Noise reduction: Close the curtains, close the doors and drown out the noise with the radio – classical music and reggae have been proven to help dogs to relax. All of these will help drown out the sound of those fireworks making them more bearable.
Dusk indoors: Make sure any planned dog walks are moved to earlier in the day; this is so that your dog is indoors by dusk to prevent any fireworks worrying them whilst they are outside.
Safe haven: Create a safe haven and den for your dog to hide away in.
Other ways to help your dog on Bonfire Night
Give your pet the space they need
Let your dog, pace, whine or hide if it helps them cope with the night’s noise and lights. They are just trying to find safety. Some dogs will come to you for comfort, don’t ignore them if they do but be sure to remain calm and behave as normal.
Things to remember
There are some things you’ll need to do that won’t keep your dog calm but will help keep them safe this firework season.
Make sure they’re microchipped
It is law for dogs to be microchipped so that if they ever manage to stray, they’ll be able to be scanned at a veterinary practice and you’ll be reunited a lot quicker. This is especially important on nights like Bonfire Night when loud noises and bright flashes can scare dogs and make them bolt in fear.
Making sure your dog is appropriately tagged can help too, include your surname and phone number in case they do manage to escape.
Speak to your vet
If you know your dog is likely to struggle to cope with the fireworks season why not speak to your vet and see if they’re able to prescribe calming medication or suggest any calming exercises that you could test with dog.
Source: Animal Friends Pet Insurance