By Ella Gaynor
It’s that time of year again! Bonfire night may be fun, but many dog owners dread it! Bonfire night can be stressful for dogs, especially if they are already sensitive to situations and people. So, here are some tips for helping your pets out during this time of year.
Of course, bonfire night is tricky for all pet-owners. Loud banging, flashing lights; the night can really affect our pets, causing them to be shocked not just during the celebrations, but for days afterwards. And worse still – while we can prepare for the occasion, our poor pets don’t know it’s coming! It’s worthwhile preparing yourself to make the night as comfortable for your dogs and other animals as possible. Do your best to dilute the shock for them. If you are staying in, keep your little friends nearby, maybe try to mask the noise with the TV or radio. And, of course, don’t go out for walks during the night!
If you have neighbours planning on lighting fireworks, ask them what time they are planning on doing so, so you can get your dogs comfy and cosy ahead of time! If you are lucky enough to be going to a firework display then try leaving your dog in a room with curtains closed, maybe putting the radio or tv on to distract them.
Yellow Dog Charity have some top tips for Bonfire Night….
Yellow Dog Top Five Bonfire Night Tips
- Create a safe place for your dog away from windows, make a cosy nest with a crate and blankets
- Distract from the noise with TV and radio
- Ask neighbours to let you know if and when they may have fireworks
- Tire your dog out during the day with a good long walk (so no need for evening walk)
- Stay calm and try not to fuss a lot, dogs sense our stress so much!
