How To Keep Your Pets Calm During New Year's Eve Fireworks

For many of us New Year's Eve just wouldn't be the same without fireworks, but while they're all well and good for humans to enjoy, our pets can have a bit of a rough time when the explosions start kicking off.

Although there's nothing you can do to stop people setting off fireworks, there are a number of things you can do to try and make sure you beloved four-legged friends don't get too distressed come midnight.

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According to the RSPCA, to help keep your dog calm you can build a 'safe den' by using a table or chair, covered in a blanket and filled with snuggly pillows so your pooch can step inside and hide away if it all gets a bit too much. You can also lash a few of your dog's favourite toys or treats inside to encourage them to use it.

However, if they don't fancy it, don't force them. Let your dog do what they want and play - or not play - as they please.

Meanwhile, the Dog's Trust urges owners to comfort their pets if they need reassurance and to not tell them off for reacting to the fireworks.

The Trust also tells owners to stay at home with their dogs if possible, as leaving them alone could result in your furry mate panicking and potentially injuring themselves.

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home also offers some tips for pet owners, such as using the noise from TV or radio to mask the bangs of fireworks.

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Battersea continues: "Classical music will help to calm dogs in general," adding that music with a lot of bass is 'ideal for masking bangs when played at a volume that your dog is happy with'.

If you can try and take your dog for a walk before it gets dark and the fireworks start up and once you're home keep the curtains shut so they're not disturbed by any flashing lights.

According to Battersea, your dog might be less likely to get stressed out if they spot that you're not bothered about fireworks, so try and keep your cool - at least in front of your dog.

Cat owners should also make sure there's some safe hiding places for their felines to retreat to when the fireworks start.

Kitties might be more stressed out if they're outside during the fireworks, so keep 'em inside if you can.

Topics: Animals

Claire Reid

Claire is a journalist at LADbible who, after dossing around for a few years, went to Liverpool John Moores University. She graduated with a degree in Journalism and a whole load of debt. When not writing words in exchange for money she is usually at home watching serial killer documentaries surrounded by cats. You can contact Claire at [email protected]

@ClaireReid19