Bonfire Night is just around the corner, which means one thing ... Fireworks. Although this can be a fun and exciting time for many of us hoomans, our pets generally don't share our enthusiasm. Animals have a very sensitive sense of hearing, making them incredibly sensitive to any changes in their environment, especially loud sounds. In order to try and minimise their anxiety throughout this period, we need to keep them feeling safe and comforted.
- Make sure to take note of any local fireworks displays to you and what dates and times they fall on so that you can be best prepared.
- Keep small animals cages and hutches covered and move them to the quietest part of the house. Also be sure to give them extra bedding so that they can burrow and hide from the noise.
- Walk your dog during the daytime whilst it is light and try your best to tire them out if this is appropriate. Keep them indoors once it starts to get dark outside.
- Close any cat flaps, windows and doors to keep your cat (or dog!) indoors. Try and get your cat to come home for dinner before it is dark and keep them indoors once the fireworks start.
- Try to block out the noise as much as possible. Start by closing all windows and doors, draw curtains and blinds, turn on the TV or radio to try and block out some noise. Classical music has been shown in a number of studies to reduce anxiety behaviours, especially for our feline friends.
- Stay home with your pets and keep calm. Our pets are often very sensitive to any changes in our own behaviours so any anxiety from us may end up getting transferred onto them.
- Allow your pet to respond in their own way, as long as they are not hurting themselves. If they want to hide under the bed or somewhere else they feel safe then it is best to leave them be. If they come to you for comfort then make sure to give them all the cuddles and reassurance they need.
Wishing you all a safe & calm Bonfire Night!
Wolf wears our 'Fireworks' print in the header image.