With its dazzling displays and booming sounds, firework night is a spectacle many of us enjoy. However for pets, particularly dogs and cats, these loud noises and bright flashes can be incredibly stressful. In fact, sudden and unfamiliar sounds can trigger their flight-or-fight response, leading to anxiety, fear, and even panic. Thankfully, there are several ways to keep pets calm, distracted, and safe during firework night…
Understanding Your Pet’s Anxiety
Both dogs and cats have heightened senses. Their acute hearing makes the loud bangs of fireworks more intense, while the flashing lights and sudden changes in their environment can cause confusion and fear. Cats, who are typically more independent, may seek hiding spots when they feel scared, while dogs might display symptoms of anxiety, such as trembling, whining, or destructive behaviour.
Preparing the Home: Creating a Safe Space
Before the fireworks begin, #RookesRecommends setting up a quiet and comfortable area at home where your pet can retreat. This could be a room far away from windows or doors where the sound of fireworks is muffled. And you might want to darken the space by closing curtains and blinds to block out the flashing lights.
For dogs, having a bed or crate with familiar blankets and toys can provide a sense of security. Some pets feel safer when confined to smaller spaces, so allowing your dog to go to their crate, bed, or a corner of the room can help. Cats on the other hand tend to find their own hiding spots, so ensure they have access to a quiet room with their bed, litter box, and food.
You can also play calming music or white noise to mask the sound of fireworks. Classical music or specific pet-calming playlists available online can be effective in reducing their anxiety.
Keeping Pets Distracted
Distraction is a great technique to keeping your pet’s mind off the unfamiliar sounds. For dogs, playing with their favourite toy or offering a puzzle feeder can help engage their attention. Puzzle toys filled with treats or a stuffed KONG can keep them occupied for longer periods.
For cats, interactive play with feather toys, laser pointers, or food-dispensing toys can provide stimulation. Some cats may prefer solitude, but others will respond well to distraction when encouraged.
Another effective strategy for both dogs and cats is maintaining a normal routine. Feed your pet and go through your usual activities as close to their regular schedule as possible. This helps signal to them that nothing unusual is happening, reducing stress.
Using Calming Products and Remedies
There are several calming products available to help pets manage stressful situations like firework night. These include calming treats, sprays, diffusers, and supplements that naturally help ease anxiety. At Rooke’s, we offer a wide selection of these products. Before the fireworks begin, visit us to explore our range and find the perfect calming solution to keep your pet relaxed and comfortable.
What to Avoid on Firework Night
While it’s important to focus on calming and distracting your pets, there are also some actions that should be avoided. Don’t scold your pet for showing signs of fear such as whining, hiding, or shaking. Punishing anxious behaviour can reinforce their fear and increase their stress.
It’s also important to avoid leaving your pets alone if you can help it. Having a familiar person nearby can provide them with reassurance and comfort. If you do have to leave the house, ensure your pet is in a safe, secure environment where they won’t be able to escape or hurt themselves.
It’s also a good idea to avoid walking your dog during the evening when fireworks are most likely to occur. Instead, walk them earlier in the day to avoid any potential exposure to loud noises and keep them on a lead at all times to prevent them from running off into the darkness if they get scared.
After Firework Night: Checking In on Your Pet
Once the fireworks are over, check on your pet to ensure they are calm and uninjured. Offer praise and treats to reassure them. If they were particularly anxious, take note of what strategies worked best and adjust your approach for next year.
Firework night can be a challenging time for pet owners, but with the right preparation and tools, you can help your dog or cat feel calm, safe, and happy. Creating a comfortable environment, using distractions, and incorporating calming products into your pet’s routine can make a world of difference.
If you’ve got any worries or just need a bit of advice on keeping your dog or cat calm, safe and happy this winter, pop in store to speak to a member of our team.