Although we're in summer holiday season and Bonfire Night is unlikely to be at the forefront of our minds, PDSA is warning pet owners to start preparing for fireworks now.
The vet charity for pets in need has urged owners to take action as soon as possible in a bid to reduce the extreme distress and suffering that fireworks can cause to some of our furry friends.
PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: “Our pets’ enhanced senses mean they can find the loud noises and bright flashes from fireworks overwhelming, which can lead to severe anxiety, trauma and even injuries.
“The sooner you start preparing, the better. Some pets who are seriously affected by fireworks, need to be helped and supported in learning to cope in these situations. It can take months of training to prepare them, so they feel more comfortable with the bangs and flashes, so it is essential to prepare well in advance.
Here are PDSA’s top tips on things you can do now to tackle your pet’s firework phobias:
- Desensitisation and counter-conditioning
“Teaching your pet that firework noises aren’t frightening starts now – for young kittens and puppies who will be experiencing their first fireworks, desensitising them early is a great way to prevent these fears from taking hold in the first place.
For a pet that is already scared you may need several months to desensitise them and reassure them that fireworks are not to be feared.
To do this, play firework noises quietly throughout the house – these can easily be found online. If they show any signs of stress such as looking at the speaker, ear twitching, lip licking, running away, yawning repeatedly or barking, stop the noises, and try again at a lower volume the following day.
If they stay calm, gradually increase the volume over time, always at their pace. It is really important not to rush them during this process.
Once they are completely happy with very loud firework noises and don’t react at all, you can start counter-conditioning, which is training their brain that the noises are a good thing.
To do this, give them a treat each time you switch the noises on. Turn off the sound as soon as they finish eating.
Doing this now will allow time for your pet to build up positive associations with these sounds and they might even start to enjoy the noises!
- Secure your garden
“Starting to secure your garden now will help prevent fearful furry friends from running away if they panic. Ensure any possible escape routes – such as holes in fences – are inaccessible or closed off. Also check that your pet’s microchip details are up to date to give you a better chance of being reunited if they do run away from home. If your pet isn’t microchipped, speak to your vet as soon as possible to arrange an appointment to have this done - it's now a legal requirement for cats in England to be microchipped, and has been the law for dogs in the UK for many years.
- Check the dates of any nearby firework displays
“This year, Bonfire Night falls mid-week, so be mindful that firework displays could be taking place over a prolonged period of time. Making a note of nearby parties and celebrations early will help avoid any shocks or surprises in November. You will be able to change your pet’s walk and toilet time routine or arrange to stay home to ensure they are safe and sound during peak firework times.
- Set up a hideaway
“Although it might seem odd to draw your curtains and blinds on a summer’s evening whilst it’s light outside, creating a mock Bonfire Night environment can be good preparation. Make sure all your windows have curtains or blinds to block out flashing fireworks on the night. At least four weeks before, create a ‘den’ in a quiet room or open crate with soft bedding and your pet’s favourite toys. Training your pet to associate this area with positive experiences, coming and going as they please, will help them feel in control and calm during firework season.
- Speak to your vet
“If you’re concerned your pet has a severe phobia of fireworks or loud noises, and calming measures don’t help, it’s best to speak to your vet for advice. There are many options open to you. Do this as soon as possible to allow yourself enough time to prepare your pet and find the most effective treatment for them.
“Your vet may suggest other measures to improve the phobia, such as contacting an accredited pet behaviourist or prescribing medications to help. Be aware that these medications should only be used as a short-term solution and never give your pet any medication that hasn’t been prescribed by your vet.”
For more information on how to prepare your pet for Bonfire Night and to download PDSA’s free Firework Guide visit www.pdsa.org.uk/fireworksready
