Guy Fawke's Survival Guide for Pets
with Joerg Thamm
from Mount Vet Hospital
Guy Fawke's Survival Guide for Pets. Yes, it is near that time again!.
While fireworks can be fun for humans, our some of our furry friends can get very petrified.
It is estimated that up to 60 per cent of pets may suffer from stress due to fireworks. Stress in animals can sometimes be difficult to spot, so here are a few tips to help recognise the commonest signs:
Stress in dogs can cause:- Trembling and shaking- Clinging to owners- barking excessively- Cowering and hiding behind furniture- Trying to run away- Soiling in the house- Pacing and panting- refusing to eat
Stress in cats can cause:- Cowering and hiding behind and on top of furniture- Trying to run away- Soiling in the house- refusing to eat
How to help your pets cope with fireworks
- Keep them indoors at night, make sure cats have access to a litter tray
- Don't walk dog in the evening
- Try to muffle the sound of the fireworks by closing curtains, shutting windows and keeping pets in the quietest room of the house.
- Put on the Tv or radio to provide a distracting noise, but not too loud.
- Provide a den or hiding place where your pet can go to feel safe. Ideally introduce your pet to this before fire works start.
- Ignore fearful behaviour such as panting, shaking, whining. Dogs may pick up on their owner's anxiety which could make the problem worse.
- Provide distractions such as new toys and chews.
- Use pheromone diffusers or spays such as DAP or Feliway near their 'den” to help keep them calm.