Behavioural therapy for fear of fireworks
Sound desensitisation has proven to be the best way to change how your pet responds to stressful noises. It works by exposing your pet to frightening sounds in a familiar home environment while distracting it with something enjoyable. You can use a special training CD for this. Play the CD quietly for a short period. Gradually increase the duration and volume as your pet makes progress. Dogs and cats that already show frequent fear and stress under normal circumstances may need support from medication during training. Dr. Ann’s Stress Reduction can provide support, for example. This supplement improves focus and concentration.
For dogs and cats with a severe fear of fireworks or a generalised fear of anything that makes a loud noise, it is advisable to contact an animal behaviourist and work with your dog or cat under professional guidance.
Would you like to know more about training for a fear of fireworks? Read our blog about firework training.
Supporting your pet with a fear of fireworks
Pheromones
Pheromones are natural ‘scents’ released into the environment by animals such as dogs and cats. They have a calming effect on animals of the same species. There are therefore dog pheromones and cat pheromones that can be used in different ways.
Adaptil Chews are an exception among dog pheromone products. These tasty chews are not addictive and contain a combination of calming ingredients. They work quickly and can be given 30 minutes before the ‘event’.
Herbal supplements
Various herbal supplements with a calming effect have been developed for different animal species. These include products from Pet Remedy and Bach, which contain a calming combination of natural oils. They are suitable for all mammals, birds and reptiles.
Calming nutritional supplements for anxiety
Research has shown that a combination of certain nutrients, such as L-theanine, L-tryptophan and various B vitamins, can have a calming effect and/or a positive effect on mood. Adding these substances to food can significantly reduce the symptoms of stress in animals. The nutritional supplements do not cause side effects such as drowsiness or memory loss. It is important to start using these products in good time if you expect them to have an effect. Many products must be given for at least 2 to 4 consecutive weeks to achieve the best possible effect.
Supplements in this category include Dr. Ann’s Stress Reduction, Zylkene and Calmex. Dr. Ann’s Stress Reduction contains a unique combination of Lactium® (alpha-casozepine) and L-theanine. This supplement contributes to normal resistance to stress and provides support when your dog or cat feels unsettled. You can give the capsule whole or open it and mix the powder with food or a snack.
Zylkene capsules and Dr. Ann’s capsules are also convenient for cats because the capsules can be opened and the powder sprinkled over your cat’s food. Zylkene Chews are a good choice for dogs because they can be given as a treat.
Products from Puur and Phytonics often contain a combination of calming herbs and nutrients.
CBD for fear of fireworks
The use of CBD in veterinary medicine has increased in recent years. Although its effects are not yet well supported by scientific evidence, it has already been shown that CBD can have a positive effect on pets in various situations. It is impossible to predict in advance how it will affect your individual pet. You should also inform your veterinarian that you are using CBD. CBD can affect liver metabolism. If your animal is already taking medication, the dosage may need to be adjusted. Available products include CBD products from Natupet, with products specifically for dogs or cats, and SPARROW Pet Full Spectrum Hennep olie met CBD 225.
Supportive food
Special foods containing nutrients with a calming or relaxing effect have also been developed for dogs and cats that experience ongoing stress. One example is Royal Canin Calm Diet dog food.
Thundershirt
Thundershirt works by applying pressure to the body of the dog or cat. It can be compared with swaddling a baby. The pressure on the body helps calm the animal. It often works the first time, although some animals need time to become accustomed to wearing the Thundershirt. The shirt applies gentle, constant pressure, which has a calming effect on most animals when they are anxious, frightened or very active. Experts believe that pressure has a calming effect on the nervous system.
Combining the available options
It is often advisable to combine different approaches when dealing with a fear of fireworks. You can also use our bundles for this purpose. For dogs, you can choose the Anti Stress Pack with a Thundershirt and an Adaptil diffuser or Adaptil Chews. The Prevention Pack for Fear of Fireworks with Puur Tranquil, Puur Nervo and Puur Calm is available for dogs and cats.
You can discuss other combinations with the veterinarian who knows your pet or with an animal behaviourist. You can also contact us at veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk. Together, we will look for the best approach for you and your pet.
Click here to view our range for dogs with a fear of fireworks or cats with a fear of fireworks.
Tips for dogs and fireworks
- Prevent fireworks from coming too close to your dog. Otherwise, your dog may remain afraid of fireworks and/or other loud noises for the rest of its life.
- Try to walk in areas where no fireworks are being set off, such as a forest. Be mindful of carbide shooting.
- Keep your dog on a lead during walks. This prevents your dog from running away if it is startled.
- Walk your dog well before midnight.
- On New Year’s Eve, give your dog a tasty bone to chew or a toy.
- Make sure someone is always nearby during the New Year celebrations.
- It is best to close the curtains because dogs can also be startled by flashes of light. Play some music or turn on the television to mask most of the noise from the fireworks.
- It is important that you remain calm as the owner. Do not look at your dog too often to check whether it is all right.
- You can let your dog sit with you and offer it support.
- Prevent your dog from chewing firework debris.
