As you read this article post-Bonfire Night, our team in Daventry are hoping yours was as stress-free as possible. If that wasn’t the case, don’t worry – many owners are caught off guard by the effect fireworks can have on their dog or cat, but there’s a lot you can do to help. To ease their anxiety before further upcoming firework events like NYE, Daventry Vets’ team are sharing advice based on your pet’s reaction and what to do next.

If your pet has struggled with anxiety, our team advise bringing them in so our vet can provide a tailored plan. Book an appointment today.

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Reflecting on your pet’s reaction to fireworks

Some pets handle noise well without much of a reaction, but others may have revealed a couple of stress indicators on the night. Some signs of dog anxiety after fireworks or cat firework stress can be obvious and immediate: trembling, vocalising, hiding, panting, and vomiting or toileting accidents in more severe cases. Some pets may also experience appetite changes or appear clingy. The team at Daventry Vets explain that in some cases these behaviours can be prolonged even after the event, or may not be immediate.

Our vets in Daventry also suggest checking your pet for signs of injuries or changes if they panicked or attempted to escape in any way.

If your pet experienced any of the above, they may be suffering from some form of noise anxiety.

Why it’s important to address noise fears

Our veterinary team at Daventry Vets explain that noise anxiety can worsen over time if left unaddressed. Frightening experiences may strengthen an animal’s fear response, meaning repeat triggers may feel even more intense, and can extend to other similar experiences such as thunder or other loud noises.

That’s why our team in Daventry recommend addressing these fears well before further celebrations like New Year’s Eve come around.

A senior veterinary technical advisor quoted in Vet Times describes firework season as “a predictable event”, and encourages vets to talk early with owners of pets who have struggled before, rather than waiting until the next celebration.

What to do if my pet fears fireworks

If your pet had a negative experience, don’t worry – our team at Daventry Vets can provide resources to help treat noise anxiety. Below are some approaches we recommend:

• Desensitisation training: this slowly helps your pet get used to the sound that frightens them. This starts with a quiet recording of the noise and the volume is raised in very small steps over several weeks or months – patience is key!
• A health check with one of our vets: to rule out any health concern that could be making the fear worse, such as discomfort, hearing loss, or other issues.
• Calming products: recommended by our team in Daventry and matched to your pet’s needs, to help ease their stress in the moment.

At Daventry Vets we know seeing your pet scared can be a stressful and upsetting time, but with the right support in place, a calm and happy pet is more achievable than you’d expect. If you want to discuss options for your pet’s anxiety, book an appointment today.

Book an appointment for a tailored plan