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By
Emma Clarke
BVet Med (Hons) MRCVS
Kingsway Veterinary Group
small
talk
09
TIPS
for Bonfire Night
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Keep pets indoors and
exercise them while it is still
light outside so that they are
tired in the evening.
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A high content carbohydrate
evening meal such as pasta
or rice can help them relax.
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Close windows and curtains
to dampen the noise and
turn on the lights to reduce
the effects of flashes. Play
music to drown out bangs.
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Allow your pet to hide away
somewhere safe. ie under
furniture, behind the sofa,
under the stairs. Cats feel
more comfortable high up.
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New toys or food treats can
act as a distraction.
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Stay calm yourself. Pets
are reassured by a calm
owner. Act normal and don’t
comfort or fuss your pet as
this can reinforce the fearful
behaviour. Don’t punish your
pet. This will only make them
more uneasy.
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Make sure pets are wearing
collars or are microchipped
in case they bolt and
become lost.
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Close cat flaps.
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Don't leave your pets alone.
They will be more relaxed
with a familiar face around.
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If you know another dog
that is not scared by noises
keeping them together may
help your dog realise that
there is no need to be afraid.
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Move hutches or cages
indoors or cover them to
dampen the noise. Provide
extra bedding to burrow into.
Try and plan ahead
-
it is easier to keep a
calm animal happy
than to try and calm
a frightened one.