As autumn evenings draw in and the night skies light up with dazzling displays...
🎆 Firework Season: Tips to Soothe Your Pets
As autumn evenings draw in and the night skies light up with dazzling displays, firework season brings plenty of excitement — but for our furry friends, it can be a stressful time.
According to an RSPCA survey, around 76% of dog owners notice signs of distress in their pets during fireworks. While the colourful celebrations may delight us, the unexpected noises and flashes can cause anxiety and confusion for animals.
At Deakin-White Estate Agents, we care about every member of the family — including the four-legged ones! Here are our top tips to help your pets stay calm and comfortable this firework season.
🏡 Create a Safe Haven
Give your pet a quiet, secure space where they can retreat and feel protected. Choose a room away from windows and doors, and fill it with familiar comforts — blankets, toys, and perhaps an item of your clothing for reassurance.
Keep curtains closed to soften the flashes and play gentle background sounds, like TV or music, to muffle the noise. Knowing they have a “den” to hide in will help them feel more in control.
🌿 Try Calming Aids
Several products can help reduce anxiety in pets during fireworks:
- Pheromone diffusers or sprays mimic natural calming scents.
- Anxiety wraps or vests apply gentle pressure to soothe stress.
- Natural supplements such as chamomile or valerian root can have a mild calming effect (always check with your vet first).
You could also tune into Classic FM’s “Classical for Pets”, hosted by Charlotte Hawkins, which offers specially chosen classical pieces proven to calm anxious animals.
🎾 Keep Them Busy
Distraction is key. Play indoor games like fetch or hide-and-seek to keep them engaged. Puzzle feeders or treat toys can also help focus their attention away from the noise.
Before nightfall, take dogs on a longer daytime walk to help them relax and rest more easily in the evening.
🧘 Stay Calm and Reassuring
Pets pick up on our emotions. If you remain calm, they’re more likely to stay calm too. Speak softly, act normally, and reward relaxed behaviour with gentle praise or treats. Avoid fussing too much, as this can reinforce fear.
Keep the lights low and use soothing background noise — your steady presence is the best comfort they can have.
🩺 When to Seek Help
If your pet shows extreme distress or ongoing anxiety, contact your veterinarian. They can offer advice on behavioural techniques or short-term medication to help manage stress safely. The earlier you seek support, the better prepared you and your pet will be.
👨👩👧 Enjoy the Season Safely
Whether you’re attending a local fireworks display or watching from home, remember to plan ahead for your pets.
Ensure they’re safely indoors, microchipped, and wearing ID tags — just in case. Then, settle in for a cosy evening together.
From all of us at Deakin-White Estate Agents, we hope you and your family — furry members included — have a safe and enjoyable firework season. 💜✨
