How to keep your furry companion safe during fireworks season

We’re officially in the fourth and final quarter of 2020.

With that comes celebratory occasions, often along with fireworks season with many South Africans celebrating Guys Fawkes on 5 November and others observing Diwali on 14 November. Pet industry specialist Amber Jordan from Canine & Co, an online pet store offered the following handy tips to promote calmness in your fur child:

• Exercise your dog early in the day and ensure they are kept inside in a safe place where they cannot escape if frightened by sudden loud noises.
• Keep the windows closed and curtains drawn, and turn on a radio or television to help mask the sound of fireworks.
• If they have to be let out into the garden after dark, it is best to place them on a lead and keep the outing brief.  You may need to consider providing a litter tray so that your cat has a choice about whether they go out or not.
• Ensure there is a safe place for your pet to hide as this is a natural survival instinct. Ideally, this would need to be a place where the noise is minimised but, your pet may already have a favourite hiding place that you should make available and comfortable for this time.
• Some pets feel more secure if they can sit with you. This is fine and won’t cause the fear to worsen. Stay calm and offer your companionship support. Be ready to offer a toy or treat if they relax enough to engage in this way.
• Try not to react to the fireworks yourself. If they frighten you, your pet will feel more alarmed. Try to act normally, and where possible, engage your pet in a favourite game or reward them with treats just as the noises begin.
• Remember that wherever your pets are in the home, they will need access to freshwater. Anxious dogs often pant more and therefore, may be thirstier than normal. Do not try to make your pet drink if they are fearful, just ensure access to water is possible.

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