An expert has revealed his tips for keeping pets calm during fireworks; as dog owners rave about a 'life-saving' anti-anxiety gadget in the countdown to Bonfire Night.
According to recent stats, 49 percent of dogs in the UK are negatively impacted by Guy Fawkes Night.
While it's a fun night of fireworks for us, it can prove anxiety-inducing for our pets, as dogs hear higher frequencies than humans and can detect sounds from four times farther away.
To keep pooches happy and content this winter, Brits swear by a little-known gadget on Amazon, and it's selling fast.
£39.99
£27.79
The anti-anxiety gadget everyone is raving about
With thousands of rave reviews, the Thundershirt Anxiety Dog Shirt has been described as a 'life saver' by customers.
According to the product description, the jacket has been proven to calm anxious dogs and cats in over 80 percent of cases whether they're scared of fireworks, storms or loud noises.
With velcro fastenings, it's easy to put on and take off with a breathable, lightweight fabric that's machine washable. It works by swaddling the pet in a similar way to a hug, so that they feel calm.
How to calm your dog down on Bonfire Night
There are lots of ways to prevent your dog from feeling anxious or distressed on and around Bonfire Night.
"The first thing to do is to make sure you walk your dog before it gets dark so they're not outside when the fireworks start," Axel Lagercrantz, CEO of Pets4Homes, tells LADbible.
"A calm walk before the evening lets your dog exercise and relieve themselves safely, before the loud noises and flashing lights begin.
"Once you’re done with the walk, create a safe and quiet space indoors. A cosy retreat, ideally in a room with blackout blinds or away from the outside, with familiar bedding and access to their favourite toys will make your dog feel less exposed."
Lagercrantz also recommends having white noise, the television or calming music in the background to mask the sound of fireworks.
£39.99
£27.79
"There are other ways you can help calm your dog beyond just making them feel safe and secure, too," he adds.
"For instance, Amazon's Thundershirt is a kind of anti-anxiety wrap for your dog’s body, worn in a similar way a dog might wear a raincoat.
"It works by applying gentle pressure to the dog, helping them to feel more secure. The gentle, consistent pressure can calm a dog in the way a hug is soothing. They are not, however, a panacea, and should be used alongside the other tips provided above."
Other popular anti-anxiety products for dogs include the Adaptil Calm Home Diffuser (£18.40), the EHEYCIGA Calming Dog Bed (£16.99), Lily's Kitchen Organic Bedtime Biscuits (£3.50), and the Rescue Remedy Pet Dropper (£9.99).
What are people saying about the Thundershirt anti-anxiety jacket for dogs?
"This has been a life saver," one five-star review reads. "I have a very nervous Staffy who does not like fireworks, backfiring cars or sudden loud noises. The minute I put this on, she stopped shaking and panting."
"She still hid her head under the cushions, but was very calm. Normally, she would be on my lap, shaking with excess saliva - the works. Thank you for inventing this."
A second customer shared, "My dog was very anxious in the run-up to Bonfire Night, as kids were letting fireworks off all week."
"She barked constantly at every bang, she whimpered and cried, she paced the room non-stop, and wouldn’t let us touch her. As soon as I put on the Thundershirt, she was calm."
A third wrote, "[My dog] is normally shaking all over and panting when fireworks go off. This year, we have had a few wobbles, but she has been much calmer. So far, so good."
The Thundershirt in question works by applying gentle pressure to dogs and cats to create a swaddling sensation, which can help to calm them. It comes with a reflective strip to make sure your dog is easily identifiable in dark conditions and is machine washable.
Where to buy the Thundershirt Anxiety Dog Shirt on offer now
At the time of writing, you can now purchase the Thundershirt Anxiety Dog Shirt for only £27.79 (size medium) on Amazon. There are five sizes available (XS, S, M, L, XL) for different breeds and you can receive free delivery by signing up to Amazon Prime here.
Danielle Fowler