Two-thirds of pets display firework fear
Eighty per cent of owners think fireworks should be restricted to official displays only.
A survey carried out by Dogs Trust and Cats Protection has revealed that more than two thirds of pets display anxiety during fireworks displays.
Nearly 4,000 pet owners completed the survey, which showed 66 per cent of dogs, and 57 per cent of cats show signs of fear during fireworks events.
Nearly one fifth of owners have sought advice from a vet or an animal behaviourist to help their pets to deal with their fear, and 80 per cent believe that fireworks should be restricted to official displays only.
Dogs Trust and Cats protection are offering advice to help firework phobic pets and their owners during the firework season. Tips include:
- Visit your vet well in advance of fireworks if you know that your pet is affected, so that you have time to trial any prescribed medication
- Walk your dog before fireworks to ensure that it is exercised and relieved before the fireworks begin
- Try to keep pets indoors and settled in their familiar surroundings, as this will help them to cope with the noise
- Close the curtains and turn up the radio or TV volume to drown out loud noises
Lynne Barber is the head of canine behaviour and training at Dogs Trust. She advises: “If your pet chooses to hide then that is where he or she feels safest and it’s important that they’re allowed to stay in their hide-out as long as needed.
"Often owners will try and drag their dogs out for enforced cuddles and affection; this should be avoided as it will only confuse your pet but it is important you are on hand to try and make your four-legged friend as comfortable as possible.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
