Firework season: Tips to soothe your pets

As autumn settles in and festive celebrations light up the night sky, the firework season can bring a sense of excitement and wonder. However, for our pets, this time can be quite distressing. A 2022 survey by the RSPCA found that 76 percent of pet owners noticed their dogs displaying signs of anxiety due to fireworks. While the vibrant displays may captivate us, the sudden noises and bright flashes can send our furry friends into a panic. This guide, brought to you by KMJ Property, offers friendly advice to help you comfort your pets during the firework season, especially for those in Crowborough, Tunbridge Wells, and Forest Row.

Establish a Safe Haven

Creating a sanctuary for your pets is essential to ensure their comfort and security. Set up a quiet, secluded space where they can retreat, filled with their favourite toys, blankets, and maybe even some calming music to mask loud noises. Make sure this safe space is always accessible, so they know it’s just for them. Closing curtains and windows can help block out noise and reduce the impact of bright flashes from fireworks.

Photo by Ruby Schmank on Unsplash

Use Calming Aids

There are plenty of calming aids available to help ease your pets’ anxiety during firework season. Pheromone diffusers and sprays mimic natural calming signals, creating a more soothing environment for them. Anxiety wraps or vests work by applying gentle pressure, offering comfort similar to swaddling a baby. Some pet owners also find natural supplements like chamomile or valerian root helpful, but always check with your vet before adding any new supplements to your pet’s routine.

You could also try calming music or specially designed soundtracks to help mask the sound of fireworks. Classic FM often hosts a weekend of “Classical for Pets” with Charlotte Hawkins, featuring classical pieces specifically chosen to calm pets, making it a popular option for dog owners during fireworks.

Keep Them Busy with Activities

Keeping your pets entertained is a great way to distract them from the sound of fireworks. Plan some indoor games they enjoy, like fetch or hide-and-seek. Puzzle toys filled with treats are fantastic for keeping their minds busy. Taking them for a longer walk or having a good play session earlier in the day can help tire them out, making them more likely to relax during the fireworks. You could also introduce interactive toys that challenge their problem-solving skills or create a mini obstacle course for them to navigate. Regular playtime not only serves as a distraction but also strengthens your bond, helping them feel more secure.

Image by Gentle Dog Trainers from Pixabay

Stay Calm and Reassuring

Pets are highly attuned to our emotions, so keeping a calm and composed demeanour can have a reassuring effect on them. If you notice your pets getting anxious during fireworks, try to exude a sense of tranquillity. Speak to them in a gentle, soothing voice and avoid raising your tone. A light touch or gentle petting can also help comfort them without drawing too much attention.

It’s important to act normally and not reinforce anxious behaviour. If your pets see you panicking, they may reflect that anxiety back at you. On the flip side, your relaxed demeanour can signal that there’s nothing to fear. Create a peaceful atmosphere by dimming the lights and playing calming music or white noise to help mask the sound of the fireworks.

Engage in your usual activities and encourage your pets to join you. This sense of normalcy can be quite comforting. Offer them treats and praise for calm behaviour to reinforce their feeling of safety and security. The aim is to be a stable, reassuring presence, helping your pets navigate the stress of fireworks with greater ease.

Consult a Vet

If your pets continue to show signs of severe fear or stress, seeking advice from a veterinarian is a smart move. Vets can offer professional guidance tailored to your pet’s unique needs. Research shows that more than 15 percent of dogs with firework-related fears may require several days or longer to fully recover behaviourally, with some experiencing changes for weeks or even months. A veterinarian may recommend behavioural therapy or prescribe medication to help manage your pet’s anxiety during particularly difficult times.

Photo by Josh Hild on Unsplash

Behavioural therapy often involves structured training programmes aimed at gradually reducing your pet’s sensitivity to loud noises. This could include desensitisation and counter-conditioning techniques that a professional can help you with. For some pets, short-term anti-anxiety medication may be beneficial, helping to ease their discomfort during peak firework times and ensuring they feel less stressed. Your vet might also recommend specific calming products or dietary supplements that are both safe and effective. Since every pet is different, a tailored approach can make a significant difference in alleviating their distress.

Remember, the sooner you seek professional advice, the better prepared you and your pet will be. Consulting a veterinarian provides an extra layer of support, ensuring that your pets receive the best possible care and comfort during firework season.

Family time

We hope that all your family, both two-legged and four-legged, have a wonderful firework season whether you are in Tunbridge Wells, Crowborough, Forest Row or anywhere else! For any questions, dont hesitate to give our team a call on 01892 515188 / 01342 824824. 

KMJ Property, covering all the towns and villages in between in Kent & East Sussex.

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