With Halloween approaching many people are nervous for their pets because of the fireworks that come with the festivities. Fireworks can cause anxiety for pets and even prevent them from eating or going outside. Veterinary Ireland is advising pet owners on measures to keep their pets safe this Halloween.
Talk to your Vet:
Your vet can provide you with plug-in diffusers, sprays and collars containing pheromones, food supplements and diets. In severe cases of anxiety, your Vet can prescribe short-term medication to help.
Ensure all pets are wearing identification tags and have microchip ID.
If you pet is outside there is a large chance they will run from the sound of fireworks. The chance of being reunited with your pet significantly increases when your pet has ID.
Keep your pet inside:
When fireworks are going off its better to keep your pets inside. Keep doors and windows closed, and provide a den or room where they feel safe. Also make sure to bring in litter trays so they don't have to leave the house to use the bathroom.
Act how you normally would:
If you are calm and behaving as you normally would, your pets are more likely to relax too. Your pets have a better sense of hearing than humans, so make sure you distract your pets with toys rather than try to drown out the noise of fireworks. Also remember that giving your pet extra attention to comfort them can overwhelm them and actually make matters worse.
Don’t get cross or tell off your pet if they are misbehaving:
Remember that your pets are already stressed. If they misbehave out of fear remember to not overstimulate them by telling them off.
Pet costumes:
Remember not all pets like or tolerate being dressed up, make sure to take their costume off if they refuse to eat or walk or if they try to take it off themselves. Also remember people wearing costumes, masks and face paints can be very scary for many pets too, especially for younger animals who have not experienced Halloween previously.
