Fear of fireworks

Fear of Fireworks in a Pet Dog or Cat

D.A.P. (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) can help your dog to get through this worrying period. All lactating females release substances called "appeasing" pheromones, the function of which is to reassure their offspring. As the young animal faces the big new world, the pheromone manufactured by its Mum brings it a degree of calm and serenity and this has been found to be useful when dealing with panic induced by fireworks in adult dogs as well as puppies.

D.A.P. is available as a plug-in diffuser, spray and collar.

Feliway (Feline) is a synthetic copy of the natural feline facial pheromone used by cats to mark their environment as safe and secure.  Feliway is the only product scientifically proven to control the signs of feline stress and may help reduce fearful reactions to loud noises and prevent stress due to indoor confinement.

Feliway is available as a spray and diffuser.

Some Suggestions That Will Help Your Dog or Cat To Cope

• Make sure that they are in a secure environment and can't escape, secure doors, windows and cat flaps 
• Try to ignore signs of stress or fearful behaviour and do not try to comfort your pet. A dog may pick up on your anxiety and this can make the problem worse.  Cats prefer to be left to cope on their own.
• Don’t get cross or punish your pet, regardless of his behaviour, as it will only make him more distressed. 
• Close the curtains and turn on the radio or TV 
• Feed him before the noise starts - He'll be more relaxed with a full belly 
• Try not to leave your pet alone when fireworks are going off. Pets may hurt themselves.  
• Choose safe times for exercise and toileting 
• Provide cats with a litter tray
• Occupy him with food-filled toys such as a Kong 
• Ensure that he's wearing a collar and name disk or  is microchipped  in case of escape
• Allow your dog or cat to hide in a bolthole where they feel safe.

Contact Priory Veterinary Group for further help and advise or to purchase D.A.P or Feliway or Sound therapy CD

Please ask your Vet for further advice or to purchase the above products now in preparation for Fireworks!