During Halloween and bonfire night season please remember to look after your four-legged friends. Fireworks, people in costumes knocking on the door, flashes of light and other things that pets would not normally experience can be terrifying. This could result in them behaving unpredictably which could put their safety at risk.

Here are some hints and tips from Regans Vets for getting your pet safely (and calmly!) through this season:

• Use sound therapy to gradually acclimatise your pets to unusual noises, these should start well in advance, and should be played at a low volume before increasing this as the pet becomes more used to the sounds – seek advice from  a behaviourist in particularly nervous animals
• Walk dogs before dark to avoid fireworks and trick or treaters – costumes can be scary to a dog too!
• Keep cats indoors during the evening – loud noises drastically increase the chances of injury on the roads
• Keep your curtains closed and the volume on your TV or radio turned up
• Use distractions, such as a chew or Kong toy to keep your pets occupied. Kongs are available for cats too!
• Make your pets a safe den, and remember to comfort them!
• Bring outdoor pets indoors – they’ll be frightened too.
  • Speak to your vet or nurse about any potential behavioral issues that may arise around this time of year, they can suggest treatments which can be used to help calm a nervous pet. Check where and when firework displays are being held in your local area. Also ask your neighbours to let you know if they are planning anything.
  • Consult your vet if your dog has any health problems or is taking any medication before giving remedies to help him cope with fireworks night, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Keep a collar and ID tag on your dog, just in case they do accidentally escape. Make sure your dog is microchipped too, as if he or she does escape without a collar on this will ensure you are reunited as quickly as possible and is a legal requirement.

 Don’t:

• Take your dog to a firework display, even if your dog does not bark or whimper, don’t assume he or she is happy. Excessive yawning and panting can indicate that your dog is stressed.
• Tie your dog up outside while fireworks are being let off. 
• Assume your garden is escape proof. If your dog needs to go out keep him on a lead just in case.
• Leave your dog on his own or in a separate room from you.
• Try to force your dog to face his fears – he’ll just become more frightened.
• Forget to top up the water bowl. Anxious dogs pant more and get thirsty.
• Change routines more than necessary, as this can be stressful for some dogs.
• Try and tempt him out if he does retreat, as this may cause more stress.
• Tell your dog off. This will only make your pet more distressed. It is important to remember that it is natural for a dog to be scared of loud noises and unfamiliar sights and sounds.

If you would like any more help or advice, give us a call on 01204 397970