You have plenty of time to get ready, so let’s get started on our plan for a quiet, calm and serene fireworks season!1) Create a safe haven or a den for your pet to retreat to if they choose. A crate with the door open is ideal, or simply a room where they are protected from noise and vibration.
2) Use heavy curtains at windows and lay blankets along the bottom of doorways. If using a crate, you can place it on top of blankets to insulate from sound, as well as draping one over the top.
3) Add goodies and chew toys and a water dish inside the den. Let your pet investigate gradually. Never force them in.
4) Play the sounds of fireworks (available online) quietly whilst your pet plays or eats dinner, to accustom them to the strange noises. Gradually increase the volume – over a few days or weeks – whilst your pet stays relaxed.
5) If you live in the centre of a very ‘firework busy’ area, you could consider taking them away for the worst weekend, or let them stay with friends/family elsewhere or even booking them into kennels, far away from the noise.
6) If issues are severe you could try many of the herbal calming products for both Cats & Dogs. Dorwest, Serene-UM and Pet Remedy to just name a few.
7) Update microchip details and ensure they have an ID tag on their collar to allow safe return, in case of escape.
On the night
8) Take your pet out for a long walk earlier in the daylight, long before fireworks start.
9) Give them happy activities to tire and distract them. Lot’s of tasty natural treats help!
10) Stay with your pet, and act in a happy manner. You can reassure your pet happily that all is well!
11) Feed your pet earlier in the day and save tasty treats for the evening. This helps them form a positive association with firework sounds.
12) Keep the TV on, and add a radio playing in another room to mask sound.
13) Allow your pet to retreat to their den (see our other tips) and let them enjoy the peace and safety of this cosy haven.
14) If it becomes too much, pop your pet in the car and drive to a quieter location, keeping the car warm and the radio on, of course!
Don’t forget about some of the great calming products at Homefeeds!
✨ Why not try some? ✨
Let’s hope some of these tips help! Share any of your helpful tips in the comments below!
