How to Keep Pets Calm During Fireworks Season

As autumn progresses, many pet owners are gearing up for the loud and bright events of fireworks season, including Halloween and Bonfire Night. While these celebrations are fun for us, they can be a source of extreme anxiety for pets. The loud bangs, flashing lights, and unpredictability of fireworks can cause stress for animals, leading to panic, hiding, or destructive behaviour. In this blog, we’ll provide practical tips to keep your pets calm and comfortable during fireworks season.

1. Create a Safe Space

Fireworks can be overwhelming for pets, so creating a quiet, secure area in your home where they can retreat is essential. This space should be somewhere they feel comfortable and where outside noise is reduced.

• What to Do: Choose a room away from windows and doors. Set up a cosy bed, toys, and water to help create a calming environment. You could even try playing soft, soothing music or turning on the TV to mask the noise.
• Calming Products: Products like calming diffusers or sprays that release pheromones can help to ease your pet’s anxiety. Consider using calming sprays, anxiety wraps, or calming diffusers to help soothe your pet.

2. Keep Your Pet Indoors

Fireworks displays can lead to pets attempting to flee in panic if they are outdoors, putting them at risk of injury or getting lost. It's crucial to keep your pets safely inside during the loudest parts of the night.

• What to Do: Ensure that all windows, doors, and pet flaps are securely closed. Drawing curtains can also block out the bright lights that accompany the loud noises.
• Block Out the Noise: Turning on the TV, playing soft music, or using white noise machines can help reduce the impact of the fireworks’ bangs.

3. Use Distraction Techniques

Keeping your pet occupied can prevent them from becoming too fixated on the noise.

• What to Do: Distract your pet by giving them a puzzle feeder or interactive toy. Engaging them in play with their favourite toys can also help take their mind off the fireworks outside. Offering long-lasting treats or chews can keep them occupied and reduce their focus on the noise.

4. Try Calming Supplements or Wraps

Some pets may benefit from natural calming remedies or anxiety wraps that help reduce stress by providing gentle pressure.

• What to Do: Calming chews or supplements made with ingredients like chamomile or valerian root can help soothe your pet. Anxiety wraps, such as ThunderShirts, are also a great option as they provide comfort through light, constant pressure around the body, similar to swaddling a baby.
• Superpet Products: Superpet offers a range of calming supplements and products to help your pet stay calm and stress-free during fireworks season.

5. Consult Your Vet if Necessary

If your pet has severe anxiety during fireworks season, it may be time to seek professional help. In extreme cases, your vet can recommend medications or stronger treatments to help manage your pet's anxiety.

• What to Do: Speak with your vet about your pet’s anxiety and explore options for calming medications or prescription treatments that can help ease their fear during fireworks.

Summing Up

While fireworks season can be a stressful time for pets, there are plenty of steps you can take to reduce their anxiety and make them feel safe. From creating a cozy, secure space to using calming products or supplements, you can help your furry friend navigate the season with ease. Visit Superpet for all the calming products and tips you need to keep your pet happy and stress-free during fireworks season.