It’s the most wonderful time of the year! With just two months to go until 2019, the country is getting ready to wind down and relax. This time of year comes with a bunch of festivities which makes it really exciting. However, many are still using fireworks to celebrate festivals like Guy Fawkes, Diwali and New Year’s Eve and while the traditional use of fireworks is understood, it distresses our fury friends.
Olive, for one, isn’t a fan of loud music. She gets incredibly nervous and jumpy which is why I make sure I am home with her on these big holidays.
Pedigree and Whiskas spoke to Allan Perrins, the Spokesperson at the Animal Welfare Society of SA, for some tips and tricks to keep animals safe and calm – and it’s something every animal lover should read and take in.
Speak to your vet
If you know your pet will still be very distressed, there are a number of off-the-shelf or prescribed calming remedies that one gave give pets to help lessen the trauma – just speak to your local vet.
Keep them in a familiar secure room
Keep your pet in a safe and secured room for two reasons. Firstly, doing so will keep them from running away. Secondly, try select a room that will muffle the outside noise from outdoors and surround pets with familiar and comforting items. You can even turn on the television or play music to help drown out the noise. Keep the curtains drawn to prevent animals from trying to escape through glass panes.
Distract them
Have a selection of healthy treats that you can keep on hand to use as a distraction while the fireworks display is going on.
Encourage hydration
Fear makes animals pant, and while they might want to hide and avoid the water bowl, make sure your frightened pet is staying hydrated and keep their food and water bowls nearby.
Don’t Leave Windows Open
Even with secure screens, a cat or small dog may be able to escape in a panic. Animals have very sensitive hearing and noses and the burning scent of fireworks can be distressing, so rather keep the windows closed and if it is hot, put a fan on in the room.
Check name tags / discs and microchips
Make sure your pets have nametags with phone numbers and home addresses that are up to date, so that if they do happen to run away, someone can get them back to you. If your pets are micro-chipped, make sure that the information associated with the microchip is current.
Whiskas and Pedigree will also be sharing more information about how to keep your pets safe during fireworks, so tune in Afternoon Express on Monday the 4th of November from 16h30 – 17h00 for tips and tricks.
Tune into Afternoon Express this afternoon between 16:30 – 17:00 for a deeper discussion into pets and the festive season and how to ensure they’re comfortable during this frightening time.
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