HOW TO KEEP PETS CALM DURING BONFIRE NIGHT

Bonfire night and other firework events can be an exciting time for humans, but for our beloved pets, it can be a source of anxiety and distress. The loud noises, bright lights, and unexpected explosions can overwhelm them, causing them to become frightened and stressed. As responsible pet owners, it is essential to take proactive steps to keep our furry friends calm and safe during these events. In this blog post, we will explore some effective strategies to help your pets stay calm and comfortable during bonfire night or any firework event.

1. Create a Safe Space

One of the best ways to ease your pet's anxiety during firework events is to provide them with a safe and familiar space. Prepare a cozy area in your home, such as a bedroom or a quiet corner, where they can retreat to when they feel stressed. Fill this space with their favourite toys, blankets, and bedding to create a comforting environment. One of the best types of music you can play for your pets is reggae, it is one of the most calming for dogs and for cats!

2. Desensitization Techniques

Before the event, gradually expose your pets to firework sounds in a controlled and positive way. Play recorded firework sounds at a low volume while engaging them in fun activities or offering treats. Over time, increase the volume to help them become accustomed to the noises and associate them with positive experiences. Try using something like the video below for example:

3. Keep Pets Indoors

On bonfire night or during firework displays, it is crucial to keep your pets indoors. The loud noises and flashes of light can easily startle animals and trigger their flight response, leading them to run away in fear. Ensure all doors, windows, and pet flaps are securely closed, and don't forget to draw the curtains to minimize the impact of bright lights.

4. Provide Distractions

Distract your pets during firework events by engaging them in their favourite activities. Play with interactive toys or offer treats that require a bit of effort to enjoy, as this will help divert their attention away from the outside noise.

5. Stay Calm and Reassuring

Pets can sense their owner's emotions, so it's important to remain calm and composed during firework events. Comfort your pet with gentle pats and soothing words, showing them that everything is alright. Your reassuring presence will go a long way in helping them feel more secure.

6. Use Calming Products

There are various calming products available specifically designed for pets during stressful situations. These include pheromone diffusers, calming sprays, and anxiety wraps. Pheromone diffusers release synthetic versions of calming hormones to create a relaxing atmosphere, while anxiety wraps provide gentle pressure that can help reduce anxiety. Just be careful with your choice and make sure you do your research before using a product.

7. Consult a vet

If your pet has severe anxiety or has had negative experiences with fireworks in the past, consider seeking advice from a vet. They may recommend anti-anxiety medication or other specialized treatments to help your pet cope with the stress of firework events.

8. ID Tags and Microchipping

Before bonfire night or any firework event, ensure that your pets are wearing proper identification tags with up-to-date contact information. In case they do manage to escape, having ID will significantly increase the chances them being safely returned, consider microchipping your pets, as this provides an extra layer of protection and increases the chances of a happy reunion if they get lost.

All in all, Bonfire Night and firework events can be a challenging time for pets, but with a little preparation and care, we can help keep them calm and safe. Creating a safe space, desensitization techniques, keeping pets indoors, providing distractions, remaining calm and reassuring, using calming products, and consulting a veterinarian are all effective ways to ensure your pets have a stress-free experience during these events. By being proactive and sensitive to our pets' needs, we can enjoy the celebrations while also being responsible and caring pet owners.