While the average hearing frequency range for a human is between 20 Hz- 20,000 Hz our pets can hear frequencies at a whopping 45,000 Hz- 67,000 Hz.
Fireworks can make all sorts of sounds, even those us humans can’t hear so just imagine what they’re experiencing.
If your furry friend struggles then this post is for you.
Scary events can trigger the fight or flight response. This is down to survival instincts and often why they flee or hide.
It can be an incredibly scary time for our animals and if you have not yet followed a desensitising program throughout the year we must have compassion and help them feel safe during those firework events.
How can you help?
- Start a desensitising program: Begin a few months before the firework event to gradually desensitise your pet to these sounds. Contact our Gosforth surgery for more information.
- Introduce supplements or pheromones: Consider using products like Pet remedy or Nutracalm to help ease anxiety for your pet. Contact our Gosforth surgery for more information on supplements.
- Create a safe place: Set up a quiet, cosy area within the home, build a den or safe space where your pet can retreat when feeling stressed. Close curtains and turn on some music to muffle the noise. Consider classical, reggae or drum and bass.
- Update identification: Ensure your pet’s collar tag and microchip information are current.
- Daylight walks: Walk your dog during the day to avoid exposure to fireworks. Increase games and mental stimulation throughout the day to help them settle. Think long lasting chews, stuffed kongs and nose work activities.
- Secure your home: Close all windows, doors, and cat flaps to prevent your pet from escaping or getting hurt.
- Extra litter trays: Provide additional litter trays for cats to use if they are too scared to go outside.
- Stay with your pet: Avoid leaving your pet alone; your presence can be very comforting.
- Allow hiding: Let your pet retreat to their safe place if they feel scared.
- Stay calm: Do not react to the fireworks. If they’re showing stress signs like panting or shaking, comfort them by stroking them calming.
- Engage in fun activities: If your pet is willing, play with their favourite toys, give them their favourite puzzles but do not force it.
- Consider situational prescription medication: if all the above does not work get in contact with our dog trainer to book in a desensitising plan for the next coming year.
- Be patient.
