Fireworks: crucial tips to keep pets safe

Animals are able to distinguish a far wider range of frequencies than people and the sound from firecrackers is at least five times louder to them.

Stock image.

Take the fright out of festival fireworks, here is a practical guide for dog owners.

As Guy Fawkes Day, Diwali (November 10 and 11), Christmas and New Year approach, the fireworks season is here.

People are celebrating special occasions through intense firework displays which can be a delight for children and adults, but terrifying for animals.

Animals are able to distinguish a far wider range of frequencies than people and the sound from firecrackers is at least five times louder to them.

For pets, fireworks are frightening as they experience the world through their senses, nose, eyes and ears.

With firework displays, unlike thunderstorms, noises are closer to the ground, more vibrant and are accompanied by sudden bangs, flashes and burning smells.

It is natural for pets to be afraid of unfamiliar and loud noises, which trigger their nervous system, making them anxious or afraid.

Fleeing from the sound is a survival instinct and fireworks can cause dogs to dart off and seek shelter, in some cases escape from the property, get lost, and even have a fatal accident on the road.

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The best way to prepare dogs for fireworks is to familiarise them to the noise in advance.

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Plan ahead, prevention is better than cure:

Dog’s identification collars, tags and microchips should be updated, this will help the local authorities and good Samaritans return a beloved companion, if they escape.

If it is known that the dog will become stressed, consult a local veterinary on calming supplements, sedatives or tranquilisers that are available.

Invest in pheromone diffusers or collars, which release calming chemicals, available through pet stores.

A homeopathic solution has a calming effect on pets and is recommended for both physical and emotional shock and is regularly prescribed by veterinarians.

Treatment could vary from weeks to days before the fireworks, depending on severity of the anxiety and treatment option.

Twelve tips to keep dogs safe and secure.

Stay home if you suspect fireworks will be used. Owners should keep their pets inside, secure and supervised.

Attempt to mask any noise by closing windows, drawing curtains and playing calming music at a reasonable volume, to provide some noise distraction.

Put familiar and comforting things around them such as pet toys, dog beds or baskets and provide entertainment by giving your dog a chewy bone.

Don’t fuss over pets during the fireworks. Stay composed and talk calmly to them, but show them that there is nothing to be frightened off.

Never punish pets when they’re scared as this will only makes things worse in the long run.

A quiet place such as a travel kennel or carrier, may provide a pet with a sense of security and comfort.

Before the fireworks start, expend the dog’s excess energy by taking a very long walk to tire, and get the animal into a calm state.

Keep dogs away from windows, some frightened dogs have hurt themselves jumping through glass.

A nutritious meal around nightfall is recommended, this will make them more likely to be sleepier.

If circumstances forces the owner to be outside with their dog, keep the pet on a leash or in a carrier at all times.

Practice fire safety. Keep pet away from matches, open fires, and fireworks, especially ones that are lit on the ground. Dogs may try to sniff, eat or fetch thrown fireworks, and pet hair can easily catch fire if too close to the fireworks.

If possible, make sure that your pets have time to relieve themselves. Some pets are too frightened to go outside once the fireworks start and this may lead to an accident later on.

Stefanie Bosman, owner of a pet store, is passionate about improving the quality of life of pets, and the humans that love them.