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Hillside Veterinary Centre
116 Wareham Road
Corfe Mullen
Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3LH
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Remember, remember your pets this November…

28th October 2014
Remember, remember your pets this November…

Remember your pets this firework season

The firework season may be fun and exciting for most of us but it is estimated that around 60% of pets become stressed and fearful while
fireworks are going off.

Follow these tips to create a stress free environment and help your pets cope with the loud bangs and bright flashing lights.
Some animals become very fearful during fireworks which can develop into a phobia.  It is important not to comfort them too much, especially if they are showing signs of distress.  Animals pick up on your anxiety which can make the problem worse.  Try to continue as normal remaining clam and relaxed and only paying attention to your pet in the normal way.

Keep dogs and cats indoors at night in the run-up to the fireworks’ season and ensure nervous pets have somewhere to hide away.  A good idea is to prepare a ‘den’ for your dog, so that he has somewhere to hide.  Blankets and his favourite toys should be placed in the ‘den’ for comfort.  If your dog hides away leave him alone and do not try to coax him out. This ‘bolthole’ is where he will feel most secure. You can help create this comforting ‘den’ by using a plug in D.A.P® diffuser (dog appeasing pheromone) – most vets will sell these, as we do at Hillside, and other good pet shops.

If your cat hides away leave her alone and do not try to coax her out, this is where she will feel most secure.  Plugging a Feliway diffuser in the room where your cat spends most of her time, 48 hours before the fireworks, will increase her sense of security and calm.  Again most vets and good pet stores will stock these.

Early evening walks are advisable before the fireworks start and then make sure your pets are inside, closing all windows and doors.  Leave the television on masking the sound of the fireworks and curtains should be drawn so that the flashing lights can’t be seen.

For pets living outdoors, ie rabbits and guinea pigs, it is preferable to move them indoors (the garage or an area in the kitchen).  Failing this, ensure they are securely covered over earlier on in the evening, providing them with extra straw and hay to snuggle into.

In severe cases and if you are concerned about your pet’s phobia, it might be advisable to speak to your vet well in advance so that you can be prepared.  In some cases sedative medicines can be used under your vet’s guidance and recommendation.

For more information you can visit www.ceva.co.uk

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