05/12/2023
Tips to keep pets safe and calm through firework season.
Info from Pet Rescue Australia
https://www.petrescue.com.au/library/articles/tips-to-keep-pets-safe-and-calm-through-firework-season?
Preparing:
Educate yourself on scheduled fireworks and festivities in your area, so you know when to take preventative action.
Provide ‘safe zones’ for your pet - this could be anything from a covered up crate, to allowing them into a wardrobe or under furniture to hide momentarily (ideally in a room with minimal windows, as pets often do anything to try and escape the scary noises!). Wherever they feel safest is where they should be.
Put on some music, the television or even AC or fans to minimise the shock of sudden noises and provide a distraction from the loud bangs outside!
Take your pet to the bathroom before the planned fireworks and set up food and water in your pets safe room (though keep the door open incase so they don’t feel trapped!). Provide blankets or towels so that your pet can bury themselves to help them feel hidden.
Ensure that windows, doors, fences, gates and garages are all secured and locked incase your pet becomes Houdini, and close up bird and pocket pet cages in advance.
Make sure that your pet is wearing their collar with a current ID tag and that your pets microchip details are up to date - this will help to reunite you with your pet if they do happen to sneak out and can’t find their way back!
Providing a natural calming supplement such as Adaptil (for dogs), Feliway (for cats), or popping on a thundershirt could aid with keeping your pets calm at home
During:
Do not get angry or yell at your pet if they are exhibiting fear. Rather gently empathise, engage and try to distract them to reassure them that everything will be ok soon - and don’t punish them for any damage caused by their stress.
Provide treats, and try your best to play with your pet using toys to distract them
Carry on about your day as though nothing is different and continue all regular activities, staying calm yourself, so your pet believes that everything is ok!
Signs of stress: cowering, pacing, ears to the side or perched back, excessive panting and licking of lips, moving in slow motion and disinterest in food or treats
Here are a few tips to ensure your pet is as safe and as comfortable as can be during fireworks or thunderstorms.
