05/11/2024
Bonfire night and the evenings surrounding it can be a difficult time for animals. Their strong hearing results in many struggling with anxiety and panic at hearing the loud bang of fireworks.
For those who have anxious companions, here are some things that may help to make the time easier.
For animals that look for their guardians reassurance, find the quietest room in your house and stay in their with your companion. Keep the door closed and add TV or calming music as background to reduce the sound of the fireworks. Shows like Bluey have proven to be very popular and YouTube is filled with calming playlists for your companions of all species.
Alternatively, Classic FM are hosting their annual calming pet session from 5-9pm on the 5th of November (https://www.classicfm.com/radio/shows-presenters/pet-classics/).
Make sure to take in your companions favourite toys. Play time will not only distract them but help to create positive association, potentially reducing the stress caused by fireworks in the future.
Tasty treats are also a good addition to your supplys for the evening. Include kongs and chews for doggy companions that will help to keep them distracted. Make sure these are the most amazing treats that your companion will get so they learn that fireworks = amazing treats. For those who are highly food motivated, this can really help.
If your companion prefer to hide and be on their own, make sure to have plenty of spaces available for them. Add blankets and jumpers, ideally with your scent on them, to help make the space warm and cosy and also to provide additional reassurance by having you close.
Keep all of your pets indoors! Both cats and dogs may bolt in panic if they get startled suddenly and could injure themselves or get lost. This is a good time to ensure your companions microchip details are up to date!
If you need to take your dog outside to the toilet, make sure that all gates to your property are closed and put on your friend's lead before opening the door so they can't run.
Small furries can benefit from additional bedding, hugs, playtime, food, music and healing as well, the same as our other companions so pleased don't feel that you cannot support them in any way during this time. If they are homed outdoors you may wish to take them inside for the evening where they can escape the majority of the noise.
If you are a reiki practitioner or are trained in healing of any kind and know that this works well for your animal, schedule some time in the evening to work with them. A blissed out animal will care less about fireworks!
Lastly, lead by example. Our connection with our animal friends is incredibly strong. Any panic or anxiousness you have will be felt by your companions so no matter how they are, make sure to be the calm and positive beacon of light that they need to guide them through the evening.
Take care everyone and look out for one another 💛