Is your furry friend scared of the fireworks? Do not worry it is not just him; Although pyrotechnics can be fun for some, such strong and unexpected sounds cause stress ans axiety to many dogs and cats.
To help you to get ready for the coming holiday season full of fireworks, we'll give you some practical tips so you can help your furry friend to go through the bitter time of pyrotechnics without any problem.
Why pets fear fireworks?
For dogs it is normal to be afraid of loud noises, but extreme noises activate also the cat's nervous system and produce a wave of different sensations for both cats and dogs.
This can cause stress and anxiety attacks. The experience that our furry ones have woth the sound of fireworks is not the same as with other loud sounds like thunder, because the pyrotechnics are much closer to the ground and therefore produce more vibrations, additionally, the lights and the smell of gunpowder, create strange stimuli wich alter the dogs and cats behaviour.
For all these reasons, we must be ready especially during Christmas season. We must have in mind that for our dogs or cats, fireworks can produce dangerous reactions (running away and even serious health problems can occur such as heart attacks) But do not worry, we are here to help you!
Follow these great tips to soothe your furryfriends during fireworks:
- Keep in mind that pets, when frightened, can cause some harm to themselves or to your guests. If the celebration is in our home, it is best to leave your dog or cat protected, inside a room, but without leaving it unattended.
- If it is a calm animal, we can let it stay with us in the garden or in the dining room always making sure that it is not in danger or a danger for some one else.
- We can even take its bed near the dinner table, under our supervision, allowing your furry friend to feel more at ease and comfortable. Whether you have him in the garden or inside a room, give him enough water, and a space covered with newspaper in case you furry one needs to go.
- Remember that the animal is going to be agitated and scared: do not challenge him for his bad actions, because he does not understand what is happening. If you are going to have your furry friend in the garden, the best idea is not to fasten him with chain or straps, as your animal could get hurt when trying to escape because of the noises. That’s why it’s best to keep them inside.
- In the event that you decide to leave him outside, under supervision, pay attention that your dog or cat does not escape to the street when being frightened, since it could get lost or hit by a car.
- Also, tell your guests not to get too close to it as to not excite the animal, especially if there are children around during the celebration.
For some animals, the fear caused by the end of the year celebrations can put their health at serious risk. Therefore, many owners prefer to sedate them and even put them to sleep with painkillers, so they don’t suffer during the evening. If this is your choice, always consult with the vet. While pain relievers are usually very easy to manipulate and manage, an overdose or inefficient dose may end up doing more harm than providing a solution. Ask your vet what medication you can use on your pet, and what the correct dose would be.
Lastly, we remind you that it is never too important to check the integrity of your furry friend during the evening, especially if you choose to keep him in a room. If possible, turn the radio on or the TV at high volume to appease pyrotechnic explosions and visit regularly.
Keep visiting your dog or cat and comfort him, it will help him to stay calm and less frightened as they do not understand the cause of the fireworks.
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