How to keep your pet safe from fireworks
Whilst many people love fireworks, the same can’t be said for most pets. Animals like cats and dogs tend to find firework displays stressful, with the loud noises and bright lights causing them significant distress. What’s more, fireworks can also be dangerous for pets, potentially causing them serious physical injuries if they accidentally come into contact with them. Read on to find out how to keep your pet safe from fireworks.
Keep your pet inside 
One of the best ways to keep your pet safe from fireworks is to keep them indoors. Make sure that all doors and windows are securely closed so that they can’t escape. Cats should remain inside the house whilst dogs should be taken outside on a lead periodically so they can relieve themselves. With your dog on a lead, you have more control over their movements. This is particularly important during fireworks displays when your dog might become scared and attempt to run away.
Create a safe, relaxing space
Since fireworks can be so stressful for your pet, we recommend creating a safe space that they can retreat to when they become overwhelmed. This could be a small and cosy room with their bed, toys, and food and water bowls inside. You may also want to consider using a pheromone diffuser to make the environment even more relaxing for your pet.
Close the curtains or blinds
We strongly advise closing your curtains or blinds once the fireworks start. Doing so can help minimise the visual stimulation caused by the bright flashes of light during the display, helping to keep your pet calm. Moreover, being in a darker, more enclosed space can create a sense of security for your pets. They may feel as if they are in a safe and protected environment, which can help ease their anxiety.
Stay with your pet
During the fireworks display, we strongly recommend staying with your pet. Having you with them will provide a sense of comfort and reassurance, helping them to feel more relaxed. Staying with your pet also allows you to monitor their behaviour and well-being. You can watch for signs of stress and anxiety and take the appropriate action if necessary. If you have to go out when you know there will be fireworks set off, we recommend asking a friend or family member to stay with your pet.
Distract your pet
Distracting your pet during fireworks displays can help reduce their anxiety and provide them with much-needed comfort. Giving them their favourite toys can provide a sense of security. Interactive toys that dispense treats can be particularly useful since they can engage your pet’s mind. These toys can keep them occupied and provide mental stimulation. Giving them treats that take time to eat can also be a good idea.
Mask the noise
If you’re wondering how to keep your pet safe from fireworks, we recommend trying to mask the noise as much as possible. Masking the noise from fireworks can help reduce anxiety and fear in your pet. One effective way to do this is to use a white noise machine to create a continuous background noise. There are also specially designed playlists and apps available for pets. Alternatively, play soft and soothing music or nature sounds to help drown out the noise of fireworks. Soundproofing methods such as closing doors and windows, hanging thick curtains, and using weatherstripping to seal any gaps can also be useful.
Helping to desensitise your pet to loud noises can help to reduce their anxiety. You could do this by playing recorded firework sounds at low volume and increasing it gradually over time.
Consult your vet
If your pet experiences severe anxiety during fireworks displays, it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian for guidance and potential treatment options. Severe anxiety during these events can be distressing for you as well as them, so it’s essential to address their well-being and comfort. Your vets will suggest personalised solutions to address your pet’s specific anxiety triggers. This could involve making adjustments to your pet’s daily routine and environment or prescribing medications to help calm them down.
Consider professional dog boarding
Dog boarding can be a good idea during fireworks displays, especially if your dog is particularly sensitive to loud noises and becomes anxious or fearful. Not only do boarding facilities have experienced staff who are trained to handle pets’ anxiety, but they are designed to be safe and secure, reducing the risk of your dog escaping due to fireworks-related fear. You can relax in the knowledge that your pet will be supervised around the clock, giving you valuable peace of mind. The best boarding facilities will be able to tailor their care to the specific needs and preferences of your dog, including any anxiety-reducing strategies.
Dog boarding in Sheffield
If you require reliable dog boarding in Sheffield, look no further than Jaycliffe Pets. Our kennels are clean, comfortable and heated, providing a pleasant and safe environment for dogs of all breeds and ages. We are fully qualified and highly experienced, having spent years caring for dogs to the highest possible standards.
Our boarding facilities get very popular around Bonfire Night, so it’s a good idea to book in advance if you require our services. Whether you’re worried about your dog attempting to escape from your home during firework displays or you simply won’t be there to give them the comfort and reassurance they need, our dog boarding facilities could be the ideal solution.
Contact us
Now you know how to keep your pet safe from fireworks, you may be looking to hire our services. To book dog boarding in Sheffield, get in touch today. You can reach us by phoning 01709 645 046 or by sending us a message via our website. Our friendly team are on hand to discuss your requirements with you and provide you with further information about our kennels.