A few quick tips from Dr Joanne Righetti...

As we celebrate all sorts of events with a dazzling display of fireworks, not all of our family members are joining in the festivities. Our four-legged friends are often hiding behind the sofa, crawling under the beds or jumping 6 foot high fences!

Many of our pets are terrified of the bangs and flashes that are associated with fireworks. “Many dogs get out of their yards and roam the streets, not understanding what is going on” said Dr Righetti. “Other cats and dogs sit at home trembling all night”.

There are, however, several simple things pet owners can do to make life a little less frightening for their scaredy cats and petrified pooches.

1. Be prepared. Bring your pets inside (either near you or in a small, secure space) well before the fireworks begin - once they have started it may be too late. Make sure they have external identification (name and telephone no.) in case of escape.

2. Leave the lights on in the room so the flash of the fireworks is not startling. Turn on the television or radio so that the fireworks blend with a noise the animal is used to.

3. Don’t make a fuss while the fireworks are going on. A reassuring pat or a few words are fine - overdoing the attention will only confirm that something abnormal is happening.

If your pet is really stressed, you may need to use veterinary medication. In the long term owners need to work on therapy, in particular a gradual de-sensitisation program with their pet. Using noise therapy CDs is often a good idea.

Do you have a tip for helping pets cope with fireworks? Share it here.


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