Fireworks might be fun for humans, but pets don’t agree . . .
HILE it is best to plan well ahead to avoid pet stress at Halloween and Bonfire night, it is not too late to help your pet through this difficult time.
Halloween costumes and the loud bangs and flashes created by fireworks can be exciting for humans but very frightening for dogs, and owners will need to plan ahead to keep their dog safe and avoid negative incidents, such as a dog running away or acting aggressively out of fear.
Firework noise can reach up to 150 decibels, as loud as a jet engine, and dogs, cats and other pets are often particularly sensitive to noise, causing the period around November 5 to be traumatic and distressing for many.
Having previously had a dog with a noise phobia, I know how upsetting it is to see your pet get distressed and anxious around loud noises. If your pet shows any sign of fear to fireworks or other noises, it’s important to seek professional advice from your local vet to help both you and your pet through these stressful times.
Some pets show obvious signs of distress, such as panting, drooling and attempts to escape, but there are also more subtle signs that owners should be aware of, including restlessness and toileting in the house. Cats often hide while rabbits may keep very still and thump the ground with their back feet.
I would advise dog owners to walk their dog before trick-or-treaters start their rounds and keep a firm grip on the lead as many dogs are frightened by people in costumes and could potentially react aggressively through fear.
Acclimatise your dog to noises prior to the big night. There are many noise CDs on the market which give you the opportunity to introduce your dog to a variety of potentially disturbing noises in a controlled manner.
Make a safe den for your dog to retreat to if he or she feels scared. Alternatively, let your dog take refuge under furniture and include an old, unwashed piece of clothing like a woolly jumper so that your dog can smell your scent and feel comfortable.
Distract your dog from the noise by having the TV or the radio switched on. Try to act and behave as normal, as your dog will pick up on any odd behaviour. Remain calm, happy and cheerful as this will send positive signals to your dog. Reward calm behaviour with dog treats or playing with toys of interest.
Don’t assume your garden is escapeproof. If your dog needs to go out, keep him on a lead just in case and try not to leave your dog on his own or in a separate room from you. Remember to top up the water bowl. Anxious dogs pant more and get thirsty.
Most importantly, don’t tell your dog off. This will only make your pet more distressed. It is important to remember that it is natural for a dog to be scared of unfamiliar sights and sounds.