How can you help them?
It might be possible for small animals in cages or hutches to be taken indoors. If so, the cage should ideally be placed with the most open side to the wall and not facing a window where the flashes outside would be too easily seen. Cats should be kept indoors. Of course all animals deserve our consideration at this time of year, but I am mainly concerned here about dogs.
When scared by flashes and bangs almost any animal might escape and run off. Therefore it is essential that your dog has an identity tag with your contact details on it at the very least. Microchipping is always ideal.
If your dog is frightened by fireworks you should take it seriously, as in many cases if you handle the situation badly it can lead to a kind of phobia. If that happens then long lasting behavioural problems can ensue.
So don’t shout or chastise your frightened dog. That makes as much sense as shouting at a human who is suffering a panic attack. It will only worsen the situation. Praise the animal when it is calm, but don’t overdo it. Avoid picking your dog up or making too much fuss when it is distressed, as as this could give your dog the impression that you are scared too. Probably your best course of action is to allow your pet to settle in a den of it’s own choosing and maintain the atmosphere as near normal as possible.
There are many products available from pet shops and vets that can help stress and anxiety in dogs. These include tablets, Pheromones, homeopathic remedies and more, so take some advice from suppliers or other dog owners and stock up soon.
You're not going to light those things are you?
