Prepare early

Helping your pet with fireworks is something that takes time. With this in mind, start preparing as early as possible.

By introducing gradual training, creating safe spaces and adjusting routines alongside exposure to sudden noise and flashes, you can help your pet continue to be their happy normal self.

Check out our checklist.

Training before firework season

Introducing gradual desensitisation at a comfortable level for your pet by pairing sounds with positive experiences can help your pet feel calmer.

However, all of our fluffy friends are different, so the same solution won’t work for everyone.

See your vet for advice if your pet is already fearful, helping find practical solutions to help you both.

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Create a Calming Space

Creating places where your pet can feel calm and safe is a great way to help them.

We recommend:

• Closing curtains/blinds, so they see less flashes

• Use background sound from radio, tv or music to drown out fireworks

• Providing a familiar hiding space to cuddle up in

• Keep food/water accessible at all times

• Keep pets indoors from dusk where appropriate.

Calming supplements such as Protexin SereniCare can also help your pet to feel more at ease. Ask your vet for more information and if they think your pet could benefit.

Plan for the Day

For dogs, make sure you walk them before dark and use secure leads/collars to stop them getting spooked and running off.

For outdoor cats, keep them inside from dusk with access to litter trays. If your cat normally toilets outside, introduce the litter tray into the house a few weeks earlier so they have time to get used to it.

For all pets, make sure you stay calm so they can mirror you. Distract them using treats, toys or puzzle feeders to keep them occupied.

Importantly, if you see any fear-driven behaviour, don’t punish it.

If you are worried about your pet or they have had previously severe or prolonged reactions, seek veterinary advice sooner rather than later to give you plenty of time to find solutions that work.

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