With Diwali, Halloween, and Bonfire Night all on the horizon, there are many potential triggers for animals, but pet owners can help make sure animals are safe and comfortable during the festivities.
How to help your pet cope with fireworks season
Distracting your pet with active play, the television, or some calm, soothing music can take their mind off the loud bangs outside.
There are also pheromone diffusers and nutritional supplements that can help them relax.
It’s important your pet knows they have a safe and calming place to go.
Make their bed extra cosy with some blankets to hide under, or if they like to retreat into a crate, then try covering it to make them feel extra secure.
It’s important we don’t forget small furries.
If they live inside, play some calming music and cover their hutch with a blanket.
If their home is outside – the noise and smell of smoke from the fireworks, as well as the flashing lights, can trigger a stress response.
Provide additional cover and hay, or alternatively, try and relocate them to a quiet room in the house.
Keeping your pets safe
Make sure your pet is safely closed in another room before answering the door.
While legally your dog or cat should already be microchipped, it is important they also have an identity tag should the worst happen and they do escape.
Plan ahead
With the nights drawing and clocks changing, make sure you take your dog for a walk before it gets dark.
An unexpected bang from a firework or trick or treaters in fancy dress can spook your dog, so it’s best to get them back home before it gets too late.
There are some popular organised firework displays in and around Hampstead and Highgate, which often give plenty of notice around timings, so I would advise searching online or looking on local social media pages to get an idea of when and where these will take place so you can prepare yourself and your pet.
Speak to your vet
If you have taken the above measures but your pet is still stressed, contact your local vet who can offer further guidance and medication which could potentially help.
Remember we are here to help and please get in touch with us if you need advice for the firework season.
Village Vet provides expert veterinary care, with a dedicated team and state-of-the-art facilities.
To learn more or find your local practice, visit villagevet.co.uk.
- Roxy O’Brien is a registered veterinary nurse and practice manager at Village Vet Hampstead.
