Here are some tips from a vet to make sure your pet is safe and comfortable during New Years Eve fireworks.
New Year’s Eve can be a joyful occasion with loud sounds and bright lights. However, it can also cause anxiety in our furry friends.
Most pet owners know when their animals are stressed, but Dr Tim Montgomery from Sydney Animal Hospitals Regional Clinic said that there are other signs you should be aware of.
Dr. Tim Montgomery is a veterinarian who has some great tips for keeping your pets calm and safe during New Years Eve fireworks.
“People often believe that their dog is asleep or relaxed when they yawn, but this is actually an indication of anxiety,” he explained.
“They may smile when they see their panting, but that does not mean they are content.
Dr Montgomery explained that barking and barking can be signs of stress in dogs, as well as lip licking (pacing), whining, barking, or lip licking.
Although cats can be spooked just as much by fireworks, they display their anxiety more subtly.
According to an animal doctor, they are prone to hiding, withdrawn behavior, pinched ears, or closeness to the ground during walks.
He stated that pets in such situations truly think that the world is about to end when they hear those noises.
“If you are in such a situation, no one can reassure you. However, we can try our best.
Here is Dr Montgomery’s advice to help you reduce your pet’s stress levels and ensure they are safe at New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve may be joyful, with loud noises, sparkling lights, and lots of joy, but can create anxiety in our furry friends.
Use a toy, or loud music to distract them
Montgomery explained that distractions can be helpful for dogs, even though it may sound obvious.
For some noise from fireworks’ booming, he recommends playing loud classical music.
He said that classical music was proven to calm dogs in numerous studies.
According to the animal doctor, keep the sound levels low and make sure the curtains are drawn so your pet can’t see flashing lights.
You can lower your stress level by distracting them with a favorite chew toy or snack.
Give them a cuddle
Dr Montgomery explained that, like humans, dogs do not like being held in panic. However, some can be soothed by a cuddle.
He said that while some dogs find it helpful to apply pressure around the chest and shoulders, others prefer being left alone.
Be calm
Dr Montgomery advised that you should be calm and collected as the dog will turn to you for comfort.
He explained that it is common for dog owners to see their pet coming to them to get affection, but not wanting it at the end.
“The dog’s main goal is to feel better.
Dr Montgomery advised that your pet be distracted by their favorite toy, or to play loud classical music in order to drown out fireworks noises.
They should be kept inside
Dr Montgomery suggests keeping your pet indoors if possible to avoid them running away from you.
Dr Montgomery stated that “every time there is fireworks, vets and pounds get inundated by dogs who have ran away from their homes.”
“Ideally, keep your dog indoors as they can panic and often run out into the backyard.”
Dr Montgomery suggests keeping pets inside if possible to avoid them running away from you.
Future-oriented
Dr Montgomery says there are many ways you can reduce an animal’s fear of fireworks and thunderstorms.
He said that if your pet gets anxious about fireworks, it’s likely they are also afraid of storms. This is a common problem for many people but not everyone realizes their vet may be able help.
“Pay a visit and ask for advice from a veterinarian with an interest or behavioural medicine. There are many medicines that can make a big difference.
Montgomery suggested that owners who have mild cases of anxiety can gradually desensitize their pets to stress sounds.
“You can play intermittently recordings at very low volume and gradually increase it over several weeks or months until they get used to the noise.
A variety of products, such as storm jackets, thundershirts, and pheromone necks can be used to reduce stress levels in animals.