Throughout Australia, fireworks are a tradition when it comes to big occasions or events. The disadvantage, however, is that it often puts our pets into a state of stress, causing havoc for owners who aren’t sure how to soothe and calm their furry friends during these loud moments.
Dogs (and even horses) are known to run away during significantly loud firework displays, and can even end up many kilometres away from your home. When extremely stress, dogs can also escape through glass windows, or dig under fences to try and get away.
Beyond our canine friends, there’s also all of our other pets to keep in mind. So how exactly do you help your buddies through these tough times?
How to calm your dog during fireworks
Luckily, there are lots of ways you can gear up for these occasions, especially when you can predict them well in advance. Here are our top tips for soothing your pup during fireworks:
- Prepare as early as possible
- If your dog is anxious, talk to your dog about the options you may have for treatment or to manage phobias relating to noise
- Try to take your dog out before the fireworks start so that they can get a good session of exercise in. After this, feed them a decent-sized meal; all of this will help tire them naturally and is especially useful if you can’t be around when the night comes.
- While you are at home, let your dog be with you and if you can be there when the fireworks are on, even better.
- Let them perform their natural and usual activities – don’t fuss or dwell on what is going on. You want to try and engage them in things they enjoy doing, such as playtime or rewards. Indicating there is something to focus on will only make the situation worse.
- Don’t punish your dog if they are showing stress or fear
- NEVER tether your dog during fireworks – when they’re stressed, they run the risk of choking themselves on their lead or collar.
- Make sure your little friend is microchipped, just in case they happen to escape.
How to care for other animals
Beyond dogs, rabbits, cats and other animals can also feel stress during these events – and we haven’t forgotten about them!
- Keep your cats indoors when the fireworks start to go off. They’ll typically find a place to hide and will reappear when the noise stops.
- If you have horses, try to secure them in a stable or in a temporary location away from the noise.
- Rabbits and guinea pigs should be secure and housed away.
- Remember that wildlife may also show up during unexpected noise and bright displays of fireworks – watch out for signs of panic or injured animals that may need your help.
Most firework companies will do a mail-out in advance, so you’re away of any displays that you’ll need to mark on your calendar. If in doubt, check your local newspaper or community to keep up-to-date.