Remember, remember the 5th of November... and our furry friends!
Whoosh! Bang! Pop! Fizz!
These are all exciting, happy sounds for human ears, but for our pets, particularly our dogs, these noises can signal a traumatic, anxiety filled night. And, in some places a week or two, as more affordable fireworks mean parties leading up to bonfire night. The RSPCA estimate that 45% of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks. It is up to us to keep them safely indoors over this time, but here are some top tips to try to keep them happy and calm as well.
Preparation: Check with local councils and organisers for dates of public displays, as these may not always take place on 5th November and you don't want to be caught unawares! It is also worth asking your immediate neighbours if they are planning any firework displays at home.
Walks: Take your dog for a good, long walk before it gets dark and certainly before any fireworks start. If your dog is scared of fireworks, you may choose to walk him on the lead in case he gets spooked by an early cracker going off. Once home, play some mental stimulation games with him as it will help for him to be mentally, as well as physically tired, before the fireworks begin. Ensure your dog is chipped or has a name tag, in case he breaks free.
Food: Feed your pets and try to settle dogs down into their evening slumber, before the fireworks begin. A small piece of high quality, raw protein, such as poultry or fish, can release serotonin, which will help your dog feel happy, relaxed and confident. Perhaps give him a raw meat bone that takes him a while to eat. Chewing releases endorphins which will help him relax. Make sure there is plenty of water available as he will get more thirsty if he is anxious.
Home: Keep dogs and cats inside; even if they are not bothered by the fireworks, they are safer from accidents indoors. Close the windows and doors and draw the curtains. You can use music and TV to mute the sound of fireworks. Avoid behaviour which may affirm any anxiety your dog is showing. Perhaps try a reward based game, which would be a good way to distract him. If your dog has a safe space, such as a cage or a bed, make sure it is away from windows and doors and full of his favourite toys and bedding. For cats, secure cat flaps once they are indoors and provide them with a litter tray. For other small domestic pets, such as guinea pigs, rabbits, etc., bring their cages indoors where possible. If this is not possible, turn their viewing space to a wall and cover their cages with blankets to muffle noise, remember to ensure they have enough ventilation if you use this option. Never shut your dog in another room on his own if he is frightened. Never leave a frightened dog home alone on bonfire night!
Punishment: Never punish your dog for barking, cowering or reacting to fireworks. This will reaffirm his fear or anxiety. Instead, try to stay relaxed and unconcerned to show him that there is nothing to be afraid of. Better still, try the aforementioned reward based game to distract him from what is going on outside. Try not to give him a lot of attention when he reacts to the noise of fireworks or give him a treat, as this is rewarding his fear and will help to reinforce his anxiety. Be happy and reassuring; do give him calm comfort if he asks for it, but try not to make this a reward to a noise reaction.
Comfort: Massage your dogs ears to help him relax and give him comfort. You can also very gently stroke his flanks to soothe him. Dog Appeasing Pheromone plug in scents and collars are available to give your dog comfort; ask your vet for advice. Anti-anxiety wraps are said to apply gentle pressure and give comfort to an anxious dog. There are other herbal remedies available, such as Bach Flower remedies.
Puppies: To prevent noise phobia, it is important that puppies get used to loud noises. Avoid behaviour which may affirm any anxiety your puppy may be showing.
Vets: In extreme cases, your vet may be able to prescribe you a sedative or anti anxiety medication, but please don't take this option lightly. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages thoroughly with a trusted vet before making an informed decision. Perhaps discuss a desentisisation programme for next year with your vet or a behaviourist.
Other: Remember there are other times of year which could prove distressing to your pets too, such as fireworks on New Year's Eve or Halloween Costumes and callers on 31st October. Try to stay ahead of the game in any event, as how you prepare and behave are key to your pet's safety and anxiety.
