A Guide to Dogs & Bonfire Night: From Frightful Fireworks to Calm Canines

Pets & Bonfire Night: From Frightful Fireworks to Calm Dogs & Cats | AD

Ah, Bonfire Night can be a lovely celebration for us humas. We get to see dazzling displays of colour and light in the impressive fireworks that fill the sky. But, alongside the excitement for humans comes a real challenge for their four-legged companions. For many dogs and cats, the loud bangs and flashes of fireworks are a source of anxiety. This is why it’s so important for pet owners to be both prepared and proactive in soothing their pets’ worries.

While there’s plenty of advice circulating around people enjoying fireworks safely, here online pet and veterinary supplies retailer Animed are sharing their expert guidance on how to keep pets calm and comfortable during celebrations with fireworks.

“Dogs and cats often struggle with fireworks because of their acute sense of hearing and the unpredictability of the sounds”

“Being prepared and creating a safe environment for your pet can make a huge difference. It’s important to watch for behavioural changes such as restlessness, whining or hiding as these are tell-tale signals that your pet is feeling anxious”.

– Animed vet Jess Simmonds

How to Calm a Pet That is Scared of Fireworks

Here are Jess’ top tips to help calm your pet if they are frightened of fireworks:

• Provide a safe, enclosed space such as a crate, den or quiet room where your pet feels secure.
• Close windows, draw curtains and play gentle music to mask the sound of fireworks – Animed’s calming playlist on Spotify is perfect
• Preparation is key. Start using calming products like Zylkene or Beaphar calming tablets a few days before fireworks are expected. These natural supplements help reduce anxiety without sedation.
• Keep your pet indoors during displays and ensure doors, windows and cat flaps are securely closed
• Make use of calming products if needed such as Pet Remedy spray to create a soothing environment. Products like the Feliway Diffuser for cats or Adaptil collars for dogs mimic natural calming signals and can help pets feel more secure.
• Maintain your pet’s usual exercise routine where possible. A good walk during daylight hours can help them feel more relaxed and tired in the evening, making it easier for them to settle and sleep through any firework noise.
• If their anxiety is severe, speak to your vet for tailored advice or prescribed treatments.

With the above tips, you can make firework season 2025 a safe and stress-free one for everyone, especially for the four-legged companions who might prefer the quiet comfort of the indoors.

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