keep dogs calm at new year

Fireworks can be a source of fear for many animals with their loud bangs and flashes.  Here are some tips to help your pets stay calm this Bonfire Night.

It's estimated that 45% of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks. It doesn’t have to be that way though - so don’t ignore the problem. There are many  things you can do to help your pet deal with fireworks and by preparing in advance, your pet will be better able to cope with those noises. 

• Keep your cats and dogs indoors. If your cat is normally out during the day and doesn’t return until dusk, consider whether you should keep them in all day, to avoid them being frightened by early fireworks. 
• Make sure if you have a cat flap this closed to stop your pets escaping
• Walk your dog mid-afternoon or at dusk before there is any chance of fireworks starting.
• Bring your pet’s feeding time forward by around an hour to settle them earlier than usual, without hugely interrupting the normal routine. Pets may also be