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Pet tips for Bonfire Night

November 1st, 2007

It’s not rocket science that pets don’t like fireworks - so here are some sparkling tips for keeping your pets as secure and happy on Bonfire Night with thanks to the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC)

• Ensure that pets are kept indoors and all windows, doors and cat/dog flaps are shut.
• Play the TV and radio loudly to help muffle the sound of the fireworks.
• When fireworks go off, don’t look worried. If you look cheerful and happy this will help your pet.
• If your dog becomes distressed, do not try to comfort it as this may make the behaviour worse.
• Interact and play with your pet if it is calm while fireworks are going off as this will help it to associate something nice with the sound of fireworks.
• Provide a safe ‘den’ for dogs such as a large ‘igloo’ or dog crate/box which is covered on three sides. Introduce your dog to this a few days before the event. Cats will often hide in a dark cupboard or under the bed, make sure these areas are accessible.
• Be prepared. If your pet has previously been worried by fireworks speak to your vet a few weeks before the fireworks begin. Medication can be useful and D.A.P., a plug in diffuser, can help to calm dogs.
• If your pet has a serious firework or noise phobia, ask your vet for a referral to a behaviour specialist.

I have reproduced these excellent tips here direct from a press release received from the APBC - and should you wish to, you can find out more about their work at www.apbc.org.uk.

Entry Filed under: advice, pets