Top Ten Tips for Keeping Fireworks Night Stress-Free...

1. Make sure your home is escape-proof. Many animals choose to flee when they are frightened. Make sure your pet is inside, secure windows, doors and cat flaps. Also ensure dogs and cats are wearing collars, and that all animals are microchipped so that if they were to go missing you can be reunited as soon as possible. Foal Farm can microchip your pets for a small fee.
2. In the run up to Fireworks Night, give your animals opportunities to go to the toilet before the bangs start. Walk your dog in the morning or early evening, and make sure your cat has a litter tray if used to toileting outdoors.
3. If your pet has a bolthole where they choose to hide when frightened, give them a den in that place. Put a bed in there, and something impregnated with your sent. Leave them in there and do not attempt to coax them out, as this may cause them to behave defensively. Pad and cover their den to reduce sounds. Draw the curtains, play music or put the television on to mask the lights and noises of the fireworks.
4. Try not to leave your pet alone during Fireworks season. Your pet may harm themselves in attempts to escape or cause damage at home. They may develop separation-related problems or compound existing problems.
5. Check your own behaviour - do not respond to fireworks yourself, and avoid reassuring your pet if they are fearful, as this can reward the behaviour and increase it.
6. Do not punish your pet! This will increase their anxiety and make them more distressed. Reward relaxed behaviour.
7. Play with your pet, or have a few fun training sessions whilst the fireworks are going off to occupy them and give them something else to think about. But do not expect miracles!
8. Speak to your vet about dietary supplementation that may reduce anxiety. For example dogs can be given wholemeal pasta 2 hours after each main meal to reduce anxiety.
9. If your pet shows extreme distress, speak to your vet about drug support to help through the Fireworks season. There are both conventional and homeopathic remedies available.
10. Do not leave the problem! It will only get worse, and can generalise to other noises and other experiences they associate with the bangs. Ask your vet about referral to a Pet Behaviour Counsellor.