Looking after your pets in firework season
Dogs and fireworks
· Many dogs find fireworks scary, so plan ahead for firework season.
· Provide your dog with a safe haven. This should be a quiet area where they feel in control. They should associate it with positive experiences, such as toys. Dogs can learn that this place is safe and enjoyable. When fireworks go off, they may choose to go there because they know it’s safe. It's important that your dog has access to this safe haven at all times - even when you're not home.
· Walk your dog during daylight to avoid times when there may be fireworks.
· Move your dog to the safe haven each evening before fireworks begin. Provide toys and other things that they enjoy to keep them occupied.
· Close windows and curtains to muffle firework sounds.
· Put on music or TV to mask the firework sounds.
· Ignore the firework noises yourself. Play with a toy to see if your dog wants to join in, but don't force them.
· You could also talk to your vet about pheromone diffusers. These disperse calming chemicals into the room. In some cases, your vet may even prescribe medication.
Cats and fireworks
· Many cats find fireworks scary, so plan ahead.
· Provide hiding places in your home, e.g. under furniture or in a quiet corner, make sure they have access to these at all times.
· Don't stress your cat by trying to tempt them out. Leave them until they're ready.
· Keep cats indoors during the evenings to keep them away from firework displays and to avoid them being stressed from hearing fireworks go off.
· Microchip your cats in case they're startled and escape outside.
· Close windows and curtains to muffle firework sounds.
· Put on music or TV to mask firework noise.
· Ignore the firework sounds yourself.
· You could also use pheromone diffusers. These disperse calming chemicals into the room.
· Talk to your vet if you are concerned.
Small animals and fireworks
· Many small animals find fireworks scary, so plan ahead for firework season.
· Partly cover outside cages and pens with blankets so they are soundproofed and hidden, leaving an area for animals to look out.
· Provide extra bedding for small animals to burrow in.
· Consider bringing animals indoors - this will need to be done gradually, so start a few days before.
for more information about pets and fireworks including a useful video.
Have a safe and fun firework season.
