Bang Crash Boom! Fireworks can spell Doom for your pets

We’re nearly there Firework night and your pets may get a fright. As you know these bangs and crashes can continue for much more than one night too. Your pets may show signs of distress by panting, shaking, hiding under beds or furniture, and they may even chew furniture or their toys to pieces. Some cats may urinate on furniture and scratch and lick themselves over zealously.

Planning for the nights of noise helps, so here’s what you should do.

Make sure your pets have a place of safety to go to a place of their own, like a box, a bed, a den, cupboard, drawer, a kennel or crate, somewhere they will feel safe and hidden. Provide lots of soft blankets preferably something they know the scent of and make sure it’s cosy and inviting. If you can put a dark blanket over the top to muffle out noises and try to choose somewhere quiet. If you don’t have this already in place then you have time to set this up. And if you have a puppy or kitten don’t delay get their place ready now! Your pets need to feel safe and secure and know they can go to this place anytime they need to, the earlier you can set it up the better. And obviously ensure they have food, water and litter tray.

Talk to your vet about medication if you have a very frightened animal and there are also some natural remedies you could try out. Try these out before Bonfire night so you know they work.

And on Bonfire night close all windows and doors, put on some music and or the TV and distract your pets with toys, treats and play. Always remember to walk your dog early that day to avoid firecrackers going off whilst your outside. Keep all your animals inside even guinea pigs, mice and rabbits get afraid with loud fire works.

For more information see www.dogstrust.org.uk/help-advice