While a lot of us look forward to celebrating bonfire night, it can be a stressful time of year if you’re a pet owner. Fireworks and animals seldom go hand-in-hand, so 5^th November can present problems if you have a dog or cat who is frightened of loud noises. Here we look at the things you can do to reassure your pet and improve your dog’s wellbeing, the foods which put your pet at ease and how to help them through an anxious time.

Don’t go out after dark

If you haven’t managed to walk your dog during the day, don’t attempt to take them out for a stroll once it’s dark. Keep them inside before the fireworks start and close your curtains and windows. You could also turn the volume of the TV up or put some music on to disguise the noise. Rescue kennels often play classical music in the background because of its soothing qualities, so try something instrumental and calming as opposed to a playlist with a heavy beat.

Stay with your dog to improve your dog’s wellbeing

As much as you might want to head out to a fireworks display yourself, it’s not the time for pets to be left alone. If you’re not going to be at home in the run up to bonfire night, see if you can ask a friend or family member to pet-sit for the evening. As well as giving your dog some company, they’ll be able to reassure them if the noise gets too loud and help to ease any distress they may be feeling.

Try some foods which put your pet at ease

As humans we’re advised to consume certain foods or drinks when we’re anxious, and the same applies to dogs. Providing they don’t have a food intolerance, you could try feeding them oily fish, blueberries and pumpkin seeds. These are foods which could put your pet at ease because they all have properties that promote relaxation and reduce the effects of stress. Just be mindful that they should be given in moderation, especially if your dog hasn’t tried them before. A vet will always offer dietary advice should you need it.

Make sure your home and garden are secure

If they’re really frightened, your dog could go into flight or fight mode and make a run for it, so make sure your home is secure. As well as locking your doors and gates, it’s worth giving your fence an inspection to check there are no gaps your dog could sneak through in a desperate attempt to run away from the noise. 

Let your dog handle things their own way

All dogs have individual needs and will cope differently when they’re frightened. To help improve your dog’s wellbeing, support them by giving them some extra attention if they need it, or by letting them hide away if they want to feel safe. If they don’t seem to have noticed the fireworks going off, keep them busy by playing with them and try and stay calm yourself. Even if you’re not a fan of loud noises, do your best to relax so your dog doesn’t pick up on how you’re feeling and worry even more.

Contact UK Pet Food Intolerance to improve your dog’s wellbeing

If you’d like to make sure the foods that put your pet at ease aren’t going to trigger any food intolerance symptoms, we can help. You can order a food intolerance test from our website or email any questions you have to [email protected]. Please remember that any concerns regarding your pet’s health should always be discussed with your veterinary professional.