Prepare your pets for Guy Fawkes
For pet owners, Guy Fawkes can be an anxious time as they worry about the safety and well-being of their animals. The barrage of unpredictable loud explosions frightens pets and can cause panic attacks, depression and even phobias. Responsible pet owners must plan in advance.
Now is the time to take steps to prepare your pet, especially as some of the most effective strategies need a few days to work. Managing Director of local pet supply specialist Seapets, Jerry Arnold gives his top tips for ensuring your pet stays safe and healthy during the firework season:
1.Ahead of the firework season, get your pet into a new routine: if they normally go outside at night start bringing them in. Make a comfortable "den" in a warm part of the house away from windows and doors. An animal bed, blanket and favourite toy will help encourage them to sleep there and provide a familiar place to retreat.
2.3 to 4 weeks before Guy Fawkes, fit your dog or cat with a Beaphar calming collar. It gradually releases pacifying pheromones that mimic those naturally produced by the mother to comfort their young, and is shown to have the same result in older animals.*
3.Make your pet sleepy: take your dog for a longer afternoon walk than usual and play games with your cat. You can also feed them a heavier dinner with a natural calming dietary supplement, such as Johnsons Calm Eze tablets to help soothe nerves.*
4.Remember to close all windows and doors, lock the cat flap and draw the curtains so your pet can"t escape and the noise is reduced. You can also turn on the TV to muffle the sounds.
5.If your pet does run for cover leave them alone "" they are just looking for safety. And if they show signs of fear such as excessive barking and meowing or scratching, don"t raise your voice at them as this will only distress them further. Stay composed, act normally and praise them when they are calm.
6.Lastly, remember your small pets. Move animal hutches inside, cover them with blankets while ensuring adequate ventilation and provide extra bedding so they can burrow into it.
* The Beaphar Calming Collar is available for cats and dogs (RRP 12.95 each).
* Johnsons Calm Eze tablets are suitable for cats and dogs (RRP 3.99). Visit the Colchester or Ipswich stores or visit Seapets online at www.seapets.co.uk
