Fireworks safety tips for pet parents

We love watching the bright colours and hearing the loud bangs, but our pets may become scared and stressed.

Keep on reading below on how to help keep your pet happy and safe during fireworks season.

How do you know if your pets are scared of fireworks?

Animal have acute senses and hearing, which means loud noises and bangs can be unexpected and may alarm our furry friends. If you see any of the following behaviours, your pets may be scared of fireworks.

• Excessive barking or meowing
• Scratching at furniture or carpet
• Restlessness including pacing and panting
• Hiding in certain places for periods of time and trying to run away
• Going to the toilet in the house
• Overgrooming and being unusually nervous

Plan Ahead

Keeping your pets as happy as possible during firework season key.

• Plan ahead and check your local notice boards, on social media and with neighbours for any planned displays in your area.
• Knowing when the firework displays are will help you to prepare your pets.

Build A Den

Your pet may already have a favourite place to relax but if they don’t, you can make one.

Dogs usually prefer to be under furniture or in their crates. Cats feel safe higher up but loud noises will often send them fleeing and hiding under furniture. Wherever your pet is happiest, enhance or set up their special place.

• Allow access at all times – don’t force them to go in
• Provide blankets and even some of your old jumpers for extra comfort and familiar scents.
• Drape blankets over a crate or box will help to block out sound and light
• Only associate positive experiences with their den – food, toys and affection.
• Remember that this is their place to relax now, so even if they are scared and in their den, it is best to leave them alone.

Although fireworks may not seem too loud to us when we are inside, they will be a lot louder for our pets. You can help to minimize this by closing all doors and windows. Draw your curtains to block out flashes of light and this will help a little with the noise too. If your curtains are thin, hanging blankets or spare sheets will help to dull the flashes.

Lock your door and cat flaps. Your pets should not be outside during the displays. If your pet is so scared that soiling indoors could be an issue, put down some newspaper or toilet pads. Also provide extra litter trays around the house for cats. If an accident is unavoidable, try to contain it to one area and don’t let it upset you as they will sense this.

Tags & Microchips

Although your pets will be inside, they should wear a collar and tag with your contact details. If your pet manages to escape, they can be reunited with you. Any lost pets have a better chance of getting reunited with owners if they are micro-chipped, and have up-to-date contact details.

On The Day

These apply whether you have been preparing for months, weeks or even if the fireworks come as a surprise!

• Keep your tone of voice light or happy.
• Get your pet’s favourite toys out and encourage play time.
• If you pet know a few different commends, get them to focus on you and distract them with some training.
• Do you have more than one pet? Play with the calmer pet to help set a happy atmosphere for the nervous individuals
• Ignore restlessness, whining, shaking or any other anxiety. Making a fuss of an anxious animal will only show them that they have a reason to be scared. This doesn’t mean you can’t give them comfort if they come to sit with you. A calm cuddle is perfect!
• Do not tell your pet off for any reason. If they make a mess, clear it up and continue as normal
• If you have a dog, take them for a long walk early, and try not be out whilst the fireworks start
• Feed your pet early.

Pet care advice when you need it the most.

If your pet is unwell our 24/7 advice service may help save you an unnecessary trip to the vet.

Speak to a vet or vet nurse by phone, chat, and video.

Our pet care service also offers behavioural and nutritional support, to help you take care of your pet.

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Do you need pet insurance?

We understand being a pet parent can be tough, especially if your pet becomes ill or gets injured.

It’s important to consider pet insurance if you have a pet, as cover can help cover the cost of vet fees should your cat or dog need to visit the vet.

Compare our insurance plans and get a quote through our website using the following link.

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