There are a variety of measures we can all take to help decrease the anxiety of fireworks night-but you need to start now!

Dogs

There is now a CD available, which consists of firework type noises.  The idea is that you have this playing in the background very quietly initially and then build up the volume over the days.  This works by desensitising your dog to the noise.

Scullcap and valerian tablets- a herbal remedy-can work very well but needs to be started early- at least a few weeks before.  These are probably the best option for elderly or very nervous dogs as they have no reported side effects.

Dog Appeasing Pheromone diffuser-this helps comfort the dog in stressful environments such as fireworks night.

Cats

Keeping your cats in from dusk until dawn is advisable at this time.

Scullcap and valerian are also useful for cats- usually they only need to have the tablets a few hours before dusk on fireworks night.

Feliway diffuser-works in a similar way to the dog DAP diffuser, by mimicking the cats facial pheromones-creating a state of well being and calm.

Please ask if we can give any further advice.

First Aid Advice for firework night

• Be flexible-change exercise regimes to avoid taking your dog out at night
• A high carbohydrate diet ahead of problem times may help
• If there are plans locally for big firework displays, send your dog off to friends/relatives/kennels on those nights- or all of you go away for the weekend!
• Never punish a frightened pet and avoid confrontation if its fear makes it aggressive-remove to a place of safety away from the noise as quickly and calmly as possible
• Never prevent a dog from escaping to an area that it finds more comforting unless it will put itself or others at risk
• STOP reassuring the frightened pet because attention inadvertently rewards the fearful state BUT ignoring is not enough- it must be actively helped cope with the noise
• Reinforce any calm behaviour with praise, petting, treats
• If the pet is mildly stressed, owners should try to encourage a game, even if they pretend to play with the ball first!
• Create a refuge eg under the stairs, behind a sofa and sound proofing using pillows or heavy curtains can help
• Close the curtains early and turn the tv/radio on
• If you have any friends with dogs that are not worried by noise, bring them round –if your dog sees an unfazed one it can help!