It’s that time of year again. While we understand that fireworks are great fun, for our canine friends the loud bands and flashes can be very distressing. There are a few steps that you can take to try and minimise the stress.

1. Always walk your dog before dusk, so they are home and secure before any bangs begin.
2. Once home draw the curtains and keep away from windows to ensure the flashes cannot be seen.
3. Turn the tv or radio on loud to drown out any bangs before they start.
4. If your pet is still nervous, make them a den in the area of the house furthest from the noises.
5. If despite these measures your dog is still agitated, consider use of a thunder shirt or speak to your vet about the use of medication .
6. Finally plan ahead for next year, desensitisation programmes can be very effective but can take weeks to months to be effective.

Also please keep cats in doors and try to avoid getting any wildlife caught up in your bonfires.

Finally we have lots more info in the clinical info section under fireworks.