Fireworks and your pet

Many pets are scared of fireworks and this can pose a stressful challenge when these events occur. If your pet tends to become anxious during fireworks it is important to start medication at least two weeks before. If your pet already suffers from anxiety please consult with your vet as soon as possible. There are things you can do to help - recognise when your pet is feeling anxious and read our tips on how to make fireworks less frightening for your pet

Your dog may demonstrate obvious signs of fear and anxiety in a variety of ways, such as running or pacing around the house, trembling, barking, whining, soiling, scratching at the door or destroying furniture for example. Sadly, in extreme cases, dogs have even jumped out of windows and been badly injured. Other dogs may instead show more subtle signs of their distress, such as yawning, licking their lips or drooling. Cats will often hide away or meow profusely.

Full tummy:

If your pet is fed and has a full tummy before fireworks start this may help them to settle. Favourite foods or treats can also be a good distraction.

Bring them inside before dark:

Prevent your pet from becoming lost or injured by keeping it indoors during a firework display or storm. If you must take your dog outdoors after the fireworks begin, keep it on a leash. Never leave a fearful pet outdoors and alone.

Reduce noise:

You can reduce the noise by softly playing calming music or turning on the television. This may help cancel out loud noises.

Create a safe and secure environment:

Create safe comfortable spaces indoors for your pet where they will feel secure. Settle them in a secure area with their favourite blanket, bed or toys. Closing the curtains may also help to dampen loud noises and to block flashes of light. Fearful dogs can be destructive, so be sure to remove any items that they may destroy or injure themselves on.

Take them for a walk:

Tired dogs are sleepy dogs, which means they’re less likely to be fearful. Tire out your dog by taking them for a good walk or playing a game of Frisbee or fetch during the day before the fireworks are set to begin.

Be prepared and organised:

Advance preparation is the best course of action. If your pet is not usually stressed but you are concerned about their reaction to fireworks - our staff will be able to help and guide you with appropriate over the counter calming medications.

Most of these medications should be given from at least two weeks before an event to have maximum effect. If your pet’s phobias are severe, you may need to book an appointment and consult your veterinarian well in advance, for a sedative or scheduled anti-anxiety medication (Keep in mind that sedatives and anti-anxiety medications should be administered only under a veterinarian’s supervision). 

For the longer term, your veterinarian can also recommend a qualified animal behaviourist to design a program to desensitise your pet to loud noises.

Offer reassurance:

Reassure and comfort your anxious pet but keep them settled and try not to fuss them too much. If they hide away in a safe place, where they feel comfortable, then it is best not to disturb them.

Calmeze is a nutritional aid that reduces stress and anxiety in dogs and cats Calmeze acts to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety and stress. In addition, stimulates feelings of confidence and a sense of well-being to help pets cope. Over the long term Calmeze can also be used to assist with behavioural problems.

It’s available in beefy tablets for cats and dogs, chicken-flavoured liquid for dogs, and chicken-flavoured gel for cats.

Anxitane Pet Calming Tablets help to alleviate anxiety-related behaviour in pets. Supports calm and relaxation in fearful, tense dogs and cats.