BVA promotes pet safety during New Year’s Eve fireworks
Firework displays can be a stressful experience for many pets, with some pyrotechnics reaching up to 150 decibels.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has released expert guidance for owners of small animals, as the country prepares to celebrate the New Year with fireworks.
Firework displays can be a stressful experience for many pets, with some pyrotechnics reaching up to 150 decibels. This can be particularly traumatic for dogs, cats and small animals which are more sensitive to noise.
Different animals may display different physical symptoms when stressed by fireworks.
The more subtle signs include restlessness, changed facial expressions, panting, drooling, reluctance to be on their own and toileting in the house. Severe cases could see a pet become very agitated, and become destructive in their attempts to escape.
BVA recommends that pet owners create a den for their pets well before New Year’s Eve, and praise their pet for relaxing there so that they learn to see it as a safe retreat. Pheromones near the den and around the home will help to reduce a pet’s stress further.
On New Year’s Eve itself, owners should close curtains and windows when fireworks are expected, providing background noise to cover some of the noise.
The veterinary association asks that pet owners also remain calm, and avoid punishing pets for their fear responses. If their pet toilets in the house, it may not be their fault.
Owners of small pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, should move them to a quiet place indoors when fireworks or parties are expected. They should provide them with extra bedding, which will help them feel more secure and mask sounds.
Where these precautions do not prevent your pet being severely distressed, pets may require an appointment at a veterinary practice for short or long-term treatment. Firework phobias may be treated with behaviour-modification techniques, over-seen by a professional, with owner commitment.
BVA president Anna Judson said: “New Year celebrations can be a frightening time for pets. Parties and gatherings often mean an increase in visitors and noise and a disruption to their usual routines. When we add in the anxiety caused by New Year’s Eve fireworks, it’s not surprising that many animals become unsettled and even distressed.
“We recommend that all owners make themselves aware of the specific symptoms of noise phobia in their animal and take steps to minimise the impact of fireworks and other festivities on their pets.”
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Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
