Helping Your Furry Friends Cope with Firework Anxiety: A Compassionate Guide for Dog and Cat Owners

As the Halloween season kicks off, followed closely by Bonfire Night, the sounds of fireworks will fill the air. While these pyrotechnic displays are a joy for many people, they can be a source of immense stress and anxiety for our furry family members—both dogs and cats. In this caring guide, we delve into evidence-based methods to help your pets cope with the distress that fireworks can cause.

Understanding the Issue

Fireworks produce loud noises and flashing lights, elements that many pets are not accustomed to. These can trigger a fight or flight response in dogs and cats, causing behaviours like hiding, trembling, or even trying to escape. The situation is alarming but understanding the science behind why fireworks cause such anxiety can equip us with the tools to manage it effectively.

Safety First: Create a Safe Space

• For Dogs: A 2013 study by the Journal of Veterinary Behaviour found that dogs often seek enclosed spaces when frightened. Create a “safe space” or “den” for your dog, filled with their favourite blankets and toys. Make sure this area is easily accessible.

• For Cats: Cats also prefer enclosed spaces when scared. A cosy corner with a cat tree or a soft blanket can be a sanctuary for your feline friend.

Adding Pet Calming Diffuser to Their Safe Place 

• A new and natural way of tacking stress and anxiety using slow release technology. Several years of research and trials have resulted in a unique treatment of Valerian oil, blended with Vetivert, Basil sweet and Sage. Unfortunately we don't stock this here but you can buy one from well-known Pet Store Pets at Home (Click here for link)

Counter-Conditioning and Desensitization

• Sound Therapy: Playing pre-recorded sounds of fireworks at a low volume and rewarding your pet when they remain calm can help desensitize them to the noise. Gradually increase the volume as your pet gets more comfortable.

• Pheromone Therapy: Adaptil for dogs and Feliway for cats are synthetic pheromones that mimic natural comforting pheromones. They come in various forms such as diffusers and sprays and can create a sense of security in your pets. Multiple studies, including one published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2005, support their efficacy.

Food and Exercise

• High-energy Activities: Engaging your dog in high-energy activities before the fireworks begin can tire them out and make them less responsive to noise. There’s a saying, "A tired dog is a happy dog," and in this context, it certainly holds true.

• Treat-filled Toys: Distraction can be a useful tool. Treat-filled toys or puzzle feeders can keep your pet engaged and take their mind off the fireworks.

Consult Your Veterinarian

When all else fails, consult your vet for possible medication options. Anti-anxiety medications like Sileo for dogs have been proven to be effective in multiple studies. However, medication should be a last resort and used under veterinary supervision, and I personally don't like the idea of medication but that's just my opinion. If you feel it will improve their quality of life then of course you would want to take this option. we unfortunately don't stock it here but we have found it available at VetUK (< click to go to the product page)

Don’t Forget About Cats

While dogs are generally more vocal about their distress, cats can also suffer in silence. All the above tips can be adapted to cats as well. In particular, creating a safe space and using Feliway can significantly ease a cat’s anxiety.

Final Thoughts

Your pets rely on you for their comfort and safety. As we move into the fireworks season, it's crucial to approach the situation with a combination of scientific understanding and empathetic care. Each pet is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. But with patience and love, you can help your furry friend navigate this challenging period more comfortably.

References:

1. Blackwell, E.J., Casey, R.A., Bradshaw, J.W.S. "Firework Fears and Phobias in the Domestic Dog," Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2013.

2. Mills, D.S., Ramos, D., Estelles, M.G., Hargrave, C. "A Triple Blind Placebo-Controlled Investigation into the Assessment of the Effect of Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) on Anxiety Related Behaviour of Problem Dogs in the Veterinary Clinic," Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2005.

By implementing these tried-and-true methods, we hope to offer some solace to pet owners and their four-legged companions during this firework season.

If there are any useful tips that you as animal owners have discovered then please feel free to comment below and share your wisdom. If we all work together we can give our furry friends a happier life :)