While many people might be looking forward to firework displays over the coming days, they won’t be as enjoyable for our four-legged friends.
As impressive as they may be, the loud bangs and flashes on Bonfire Night can strike fear in dogs. New research from Pets at Home reveals that 60% of pet owners in the UK have seen increased anxiety in their pets around fireworks.
Miniature Schnauzers, Dachshunds, Pomeranians, Cockerpoos and Staffordshire bull terriers are among the top breeds to get the most stressed.
Others in the top 10 include English springer spaniels, Jack Russel terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Chihuahuas and French bulldogs.
Laura Stapleton, clinical governance and regulatory lead at Pets at Home has issued a warning to pet owners ahead of the firework season.
(Image: Getty Images/Flickr RF)
She said: “All pets are different and it’s important that you’re able to recognise what anxiety looks like for yours.
“Common signs to look out for include pacing and panting in dogs, hiding and hissing in cats, and stamping or a change of appetite in rabbits.
“For most pets, a fearful state usually starts with a watchful phase where they will be unusually alert.”
Laura shared tips on how to keep pets safe and calm during the celebrations. She said:
* Distracting your pets can ease their anxiety. Try to muffle the sound of fireworks by turning on the TV or playing rhythmic music. To make this easier Pets at Home have created multiple Spotify playlists, which has a range of genres to choose from, including reggae, soft rock and classical selections.
(Image: Getty Images)
* For pets who experience severe noise phobia and anxiety, it is recommended to seek advice from your local vet in advance of bonfire night, as some medications can take a few days to take effect.
* Hide the flashing lights as best you can by keeping windows, blinds and curtains closed. For rabbits and guinea pigs, provide them with lots of bedding to hide in and partly cover the hutch in blankets to help muffle the noise. If they are used to being inside, bring them indoors.
* It’s also important for you, as an owner, to remain calm as animals can sense any changes in your demeanour, which could potentially make them more anxious.
* While treats and toys may be enough to distract some pets, for those which are more anxious you may have to explore alternative methods such as anti-anxiety products. From spot-on treatments, calming diffusers, plug-in diffusers and anti-anxiety jackets, there are lots of options available to soothe your pets. It’s best to introduce your pet to these a few weeks prior to Bonfire Night rather than add something else new on the night.
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