Pet owners in County Durham and Darlington firework advice

Ahead of Bonfire Night and several weeks of fireworks, Medivet, on Stanhope Road, Darlington, has given pet owners some advice about keeping their dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals safe and calm at this time of year.

In an email to pet owners, it said: "As we dive into fireworks season, the night sky transforms into a canvas of dazzling colours and spectacular displays. While these celebrations may be fun for some, they can be quite stressful for our furry friends.

"The loud noises and bright flashes can cause anxiety in dogs, so it's important to prepare. It’s a good idea to create a safe, cosy space for them during the celebrations, complete with their favourite toys and maybe some calming music.

"We've put together some tips to help keep your dog comfortable and calm during the fireworks season."

Pet owners in County Durham and Darlington firework advice:

1. Invest in a pheromone diffuser

Pheromone sprays and diffusers can help ease pet stress and anxiety, try placing a couple around the house - these can be a good way to keep nervous pets’ calm. You’ll need to do this at least a couple of weeks ahead of fireworks night for it to take effect.

Your vet will be able to help you choose an option that best suits your pet.

2. Walk dogs early

If you usually go for an evening or late-night walk, try to change the routine and head out early to avoid being outside when the fireworks start. Even if they don’t normally show fear around fireworks, dogs can be easily startled by loud, unexpected bangs while outside.

Gradually alter your normal walking routine about a week before fireworks occasions to get your dog used to the change. Be sure to keep them on a lead at all times during fireworks season; startled dogs can often run off without warning.

3. Keep cats in

If your cat is an outdoor cat that likes to wander, it’s worth trying to keep them in when they come home earlier in the day. Otherwise, there’s a chance they will still be out when the fireworks start.

4. Create a safe space for your pet

Creating a safe space in your house gives your pet somewhere calm and familiar to retreat to when they get scared. Fill a room or corner with food and water bowls, their favourite toys, and bedding to create a pet-friendly haven.

It’s important not to confine them to this area as this can make them feel even more stressed. You should just let them go wherever they feel safest.

5. Provide plenty of hiding spaces

Most homes are full of great hiding spots for dogs and cats, under the bed or behind the sofa, for example. Make sure you provide plenty of places they can safely hide away from the noise. This is particularly important for cats.

If they do decide to take refuge around the house, keep an eye on where they are to avoid shutting them in and cutting them off from other areas of the house.

6. Close windows, curtains, and blinds

Keeping your windows closed can help muffle loud noises and prevent your pet from escaping if they decide to flee. You may also want to close any curtains or blinds to further soundproof your home and shut out bright flashes and sparks that can scare pets. Don’t forget to lock the cat flap to prevent your cat from getting outside.

7. Turn up the radio or TV

Turning on the radio or TV not only helps mask the loud bangs and crackles of fireworks, but also provides a familiar noise to help distract your dog or cat. Play calming music or turn on a programme you watch regularly to help reassure your pet that everything’s alright.

8. Give rabbits extra bedding

Rabbits tend to burrow when they get scared, so popping some extra bedding into their home gives them plenty to hide in and helps them feel protected against the noise.

You may also want to give them some extra hideaways, such as a ventilated cardboard box filled with hay, to ensure they have lots of opportunities to take refuge from the noise.

9. Stay at home

If at all possible, try to ensure that somebody is at home, this will help soothe your pet’s fears. Left to their own devices, your pet could become very stressed and destructive in your absence.

Try and behave as normally as possible around your dog, the more normal we appear, the more likely they are to feel safe and secure since you seem unbothered and don’t react. If they approach you for comfort, then you should respond to them in your usual calm and soothing way and shouldn’t ignore them. Don't tell them off for what may be inappropriate behaviour in our eyes, this will only add to the anxiety.

10. Give them a treat

A stuffed chew toy can keep dogs occupied for hours, while a treat puzzle ball can have the same effect on cats and rabbits. These stimulating toys help take their mind off what’s going on around them and can even help them forget their fears. It’ll also reward their good behaviour and bravery.

11. Make sure they’re microchipped

Spooked pets can run away, especially cats, so make sure they’re properly microchipped to make them easily identifiable if they do. If your pet’s already microchipped, make sure your contact details are up to date so you can be contacted straight away.