Keeping your pet safe through the Fireworks period
Fireworks! As the 5th of November gets closer here are some handy hints for you and your pet… Fireworks are enjoyed year-round by people but can be a source of fear for many animals. It doesn’t have to be that way though, so don’t ignore the problem. In some cases you can be referred […] The post Keeping your pet safe through the Fireworks period appeared first on Dundas Veterinary Group.
Fireworks!
As the 5th of November gets closer here are some handy hints for you and your pet…
Fireworks are enjoyed year-round by people but can be a source of fear for many animals. It doesn’t have to be that way though, so don’t ignore the problem. In some cases you can be referred to an animal behaviourist. You can also follow our top tips to make firework celebrations less frightening for your pet.
Planning ahead:
Pheromone diffusers disperse calming chemicals into the room and may be a good option for your dog or cat. In some cases we may even prescribe medication. We have Adaptil and Feliway diffusers available to purchase at all our branches along with Zylkene capsules. They are best used in conjunction with behavioural therapy and are more effective when the course is started before fireworks begin.
Keeping cats and dogs secure:
• Make sure your dog or cat always has somewhere to hide if he or she wants to, and they have access to this place at all times. For example this could be under some furniture or in a cupboard. Be creative with your dens!
• It is a good idea to keep water and food bowls in this safe place, and provide chew and/or puzzle toys to distract them.
• During firework seasons, walk dogs during daylight hours and keep cats and dogs indoors when fireworks are likely to be set off.
• Be sure to provide enough litter trays for the number of cats in the household when keeping them indoors during fireworks.
• At nightfall close windows and curtains and put on the radio or televison to mask and muffle the sound of fireworks.
• If your pet shows any signs of fear try to ignore their behaviour. Leave them alone unless they are likely to harm themselves.
• Never punish or fuss over your pet when it’s scared as this will only make things worse in the long run.
• Make sure your cat or dog is always kept in a safe and secure environment and can’t escape if there’s a sudden noise. Have your pet micro-chipped in case they do escape.
Don’t forget small animals:
• If your pets live outside, hutches and cages etc. should be brought indoors if possible. If this is not possible, partly cover cages, pens and aviaries with blankets so that one area is well sound-proofed. Make sure that your pet is still able to look out.
• Provide lots of extra bedding so your pet has something to burrow and hide in.
Finally, if you plan on having fireworks or a bonfire make sure you thoroughly check your bonfire for wildlife such as hedgehogs or even outdoor cats that may be using it a shelter. Make sure your area and your pets are well secured and safe so no animals or people are injured during this firework season.
For any more information please contact the surgery.
The post Keeping your pet safe through the Fireworks period appeared first on Dundas Veterinary Group.
