Fireworks are coming!!!

An animal’s anxiety will build over time, so noise phobias will often get worse with age. Therefore, changing these behaviours will also take time, often several months. There are a few things you can do at home to prepare your pet for the upcoming fireworks, and some things you can work on for a more long-term solution.

What to do on the day:

• Walk your dog earlier in the day, feed them a little earlier and make sure they are locked inside. 
• Allow your dog or cat to go to its preferred safe place and don’t fuss over them! If you act differently, they will know, so try to act as normally as possible. You can still reassure them, or talk calmly, just don’t coddle them. 
• Try a Thunder Jacket for your pet. These are tight jackets that can make your pet feel more safe and secure. 
• Provide them with a distracting treat or toy, like a Kong Ball or LickiMat, before the fireworks start. This will keep their mind off the upcoming event and hopefully distract them whilst it’s happening. 
• Provide them with soothing background noises, like classical music, the TV or the radio. Don’t make it too loud as this could distress them as well. 
• Once the show is over, make sure your pet is completely relaxed before letting them outside again. If possible, keep them in overnight, as any loud noise (like a car backfiring) could scare them into running away.