Us humans love fireworks – but they can be the reason for a dog or cat suddenly being anxious at night. In fact, it can be an extremely frightening and stressful time of year for our four-legged friends. But why are animals scared of fireworks? Our resident vet has jotted down her top tips for calming an anxious pet as well as the treatment options available.
Prepare a ‘safe room’ and hiding places for your pet where they feel comfortable
Fill their pet den with a cosy bed and their favourite toys, pull the curtains to block out the fireworks, and have the TV or some music on to distract them.
Try to avoid leaving your pet alone during fireworks
It’s important to spend time with your pet when they are stressed and nervous, as this may trigger separation anxiety. This is especially true when managing puppy anxiety. Dogs can really injure themselves when they are distressed, so if you need to leave, make sure they’re in a safe place with plenty to distract them.
How to calm pets during fireworks
- Keep your furry friend inside.
- Act as you normally would, stay relaxed, and reward calm behaviour.
- Do not punish or shout as this will only make their stress worse.
- Consider using calming products and other supplements that can help relieve their anxiety. These should be started a few days before the fireworks season and continued throughout. Speak to your vet if you’re unsure which calming method is the right one for your pet.
Our articles are not a replacement for face-to-face vet advice. It’s important to consult with your vet on a regular basis to raise any pet concerns that you may have.
