Remember, remember your pets this November

October 09

I know that I am preaching to the converted here, but hopefully you can share some of these tips with your more concerned clients if they have pets that are frightened by loud noises.

KEEPING CATS AND DOGS SAFE AND SECURE

*During the fireworks, at nightfall, close all windows and curtains and put on some music to mask and muffle the fireworks sounds.

*If your dog or cat shows any signs of fear, try to ignore his/her behaviour unless there is imminent danger - for example if your pet is likely to get hurt.

*Never show anger to your dog/cat if she appears frightened - this will only convince your pet that there IS something to be afraid of.

*Do not fuss over or try to reassure your dog or cat when he is frightened.

*Make sure that your dog or cat is kept in a safe and secure environment at all times so that he can bolt and escape in reaction to a sudden noise. If you have had your pet microchipped you will certainly improve the chances of a safe return if she does escape.

DOGS - BEFORE THE FIREWORKS START

*If your dog is frightened by fireworks, a dog appeasing pheromone diffuser that disperses calming chemicals into the room may be a good option, or your vet may even prescribe medication.

*Owners of fearful dogs can also plan ahead by providing a 'doggy play area' in their home - choose one of the quieter rooms in your house.

*Before the fireworks season begins, train your dog to associate the play area with positive experiences. A good way of doing this, is to play games with your dog in the play area, with a variety of toys. The toys should be swapped regularly and put away when not in use so that your dog does not become bored with them.

*Some dogs appreciate being able to withdraw when they are frightened, so the provision of a doggy den in the 'doggy play area' may help them to cope. For example, this could be a wardrobe or a cupboard. Packing this with old duvets and blankets will make it more comfortable and help to soundproof the area. Give your dog access to this place at all times, even when you are not at home.

*Never take your dog to a fireworks display. Even if it doesn't bark or whimper at the noise, it doesn't mean it is happy. Excessive panting and yawning can sometimes indicate that your dog is stressed.

WHEN THE FIREWORKS START

*When the fireworks begin, close any windows and black out the 'doggy play area' to remove any additional problems caused by flashing lights.

*Each evening before the fireworks begin, move your dog to the play area and provide toys and other things that he enjoys. Preferably, make sure that there are things for you to do too so that your dog is not left alone.

DOGS

* Set a good example and ignore the fireworks noise yourself - play with a toy to see if your dog wants to join in but don't force him to play.

*Exercise your dog during daylight hours - never take her for a walk when fireworks are being let off.

*If you know of another dog that is not scared by noises and gets on well with your dog, then keeping the 2 together during the evenings may help your dog to realise that there's no need to be afraid.

CATS

*If possible, keep your cat indoors when the fireworks are likely to be set off - remember to lock the catflap once she is indoors.

*Make sure that your cat has somewhere to hide if she wants to - for example under or on top of some furniture or inside a cupboard. Don't try to tempt him out as this causes increased stress.

SMALL ANIMALS

*If your pets live outside, partly cover cages, pens and aviaries with blankets so that one area is sound-proofed. Make sure that your pet is still able to look out. Hutches/cages and enclosures should, if possible, be brought into a quiet room indoors or into a garage or shed.

*If you cannot bring your pet's hutch inside, you should turn its enclosure around so that it faces a wall or fence instead of the open garden.

*Cover any aviaries or hutches with thick blankets or a duvet to block out the sight of the fireworks and deaden the sound of the bangs, but make sure there is enough ventilation.

*Provide lots of extra bedding for your pets so that they have something to burrow in.

REMEMBER, REMEMBER...................

*If you are using fireworks at any kind of celebration, please use lower-noise fireworks as they will reduce the likely stress to animals. You should make sure that pet and farm animal owners in the neighbourdhood are aware of the date and time of the event.

*Firework debris and litter can harm animals so pick it all up after it has cooled down and dispose of it safely.

*Keep cats and dogs indoors while any bonfire is alight. Ensure that any bonfire is a safe distance from aviaries or rabbit/guinea pig accommodation.

*Bonfires can be fatal for wild animals such as hedgehogs which can crawl into them to sleep. Build bonfires as late as possible to reduce this risk and make sure you disturb the bonfire's foundations to give any wildlife a chance to escape before it is lit.

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