Written by Mrs Vicky L Payne BVetMed MRCVS, Four Seasons Holistic Veterinary Care.
We want everyone to enjoy our bonfire celebrations, including pets!
We spoke to vet and animal behaviourist Vicky Payne to give us some advice to help you keep your animals safe on Saturday 12th October.
Dogs:
- Calming plug-in diffusers and collars which use herbs or pheromones should be plugged in before bonfire night to help calm your dog.
- Make sure you have walked your dog before dusk. Avoid letting them out for toilet breaks between 7.30pm and 9.30pm as there will be loud bangs.
- Give a calming herbal supplement for a few days before bonfire (your vet will be able to advise you).
- Prepare a cozy den where your dog can hide away, close curtains, put the lights on, and have music or the TV on as a distraction.
- Somebody must stay in with dogs who are likely to be afraid of fireworks! Try doing something your dogs loves to take their mind off things such as playing a game, hunting for treats, grooming, or just snuggling on the sofa. Act normally to help keep your dog calm.
- If your dog is very scared of fireworks ask your vet for medication that can be given on the night, or take a trip out of the area for the evening.
Cats:
- Calming plug-in diffusers are available for cats too!
- Make sure your cat is shut indoors well before dark.
- Cats are more likely to hide away so prepare a snug den for them with their favourite snacks and toys.
Small Pets:
- Outdoor caged pets like rabbits and guinea pigs should be under cover for the evening.
- Indoor small pets might appreciate being moved to the quietest part of the house.
Horses and Livestock:
Most livestock will initially be startled by loud noises then settle.
- Ensure livestock is in a paddock with safe and secure fencing and check them before and after the display.
- Housed livestock may be more at risk if they panic and should be monitored.
- Horses are often safer outdoors than shut in a stable, but the paddock should be safe, with secure fencing.
- Rugs and boots are a sensible precaution.
- A radio may help soothe stabled horses and ear plugs/muffs are available to dull the sound.
- Herbal calmers in the feed may be appropriate and your vet can advise on sedation if required.
- Horses should be monitored at all times during the display.
For more information from Vicky on supporting your animals including prevention of noise phobias and tips on how to desensitise your pets, please read the attached link below.
Fireworks Safety for Pets & Livestock by Vicky Payne, Holistic Vet.
By supporting organised displays which publish the dates and location of the event, the impact on animals can be managed and reduced.