As bonfire season approaches, the RSPCA provides essential advice to pet owners to manage their pets’ fear of fireworks.
- Last October and November, the RSPCA received an increased number of 364 calls concerning fireworks impacting animals.
- Research indicates that approximately 45% of dogs exhibit fear of fireworks, necessitating proactive measures.
- RSPCA Scientific Officer Lisa Richards advises on methods to ensure pets remain calm and safe.
- Pet owners are encouraged to prepare suitable hiding places, use pheromone diffusers, and keep their pets indoors during fireworks.
With the approach of the bonfire night season, the RSPCA has issued guidance to assist pet owners in alleviating the stress fireworks can cause to animals. Last year, the RSPCA received 364 calls in October and November regarding pets distressed by fireworks, surpassing numbers from previous years such as 2013 and 2012.
Research by the RSPCA and the University of Bristol has revealed that nearly 45% of dogs may experience fear during fireworks displays, underlining the importance of taking steps to protect them. Lisa Richards, RSPCA Scientific Officer, emphasised the necessity of ensuring enjoyment for all, highlighting the potential distress or confusion animals may face during fireworks.
Richards advised that pet owners should always inform their veterinarians of any signs of stress or unusual behaviour observed in their animals to receive long-term support. Some immediate strategies include providing pets with suitable hiding places with extra bedding and ensuring windows and curtains are closed to muffle the sound of fireworks.
Playing music or turning on the television can further help in masking the noise from fireworks, potentially using resources like the Sounds Scary! CD to aid in desensitising dogs to loud noises. It is crucial to keep pets indoors during any fireworks displays and ensure they are equipped with identification such as microchips in case they escape.
Moreover, Richards stressed that pets should never be taken to fireworks displays, as the environment can still provoke stress even in the absence of loud noises. Pheromone diffusers might be beneficial in helping dogs and cats feel more at ease.
In addition to pet owners, event organisers are urged to be proactive by providing ample notification to residents and ensuring no farm or zoo animals nearby could be affected. Richards also highlighted the danger fireworks pose to wildlife, advising organisers to check bonfires for nesting animals prior to lighting, and to construct or move them shortly before lighting.
Proactive measures and thoughtful planning can significantly reduce the stress and harm that fireworks pose to animals and wildlife.
