30/10/2026
As a dog owner herself and with experience in desensitisation training, Beth our student vet nurse has great advice on how to keep your pets calm on bonfire night next week:
Take your dogs out for a toilet break before it goes dark, shut the windows and cat flap to keep your cats indoors and move hutches inside or cover them with a towel or blanket. Close your curtains and turn the TV or radio on to muffle the sounds. You can use long lasting chews and lick mats to take their minds off of the fireworks.
If your pet wants to hide somewhere at home, let them. They’ll find a safe space and come out for a cuddle or a wander when they feel brave enough.
Check that your pets' microchip details are up to date - if they were to run away it will make reuniting with them much easier!
I personally use natural calming treats as well as pheromone sprays and plug-in diffusers at home as they mimic the natural calming messages for dogs and cats - we have plenty in the surgery if you would like to try them.
You know your pets best so if you think they’ll need extra help to stay calm and reduce their anxiety please give us a call and we can chat about which over the counter or prescription medications will be right for them.
The best way to prepare for bonfire night though happens all year round through desensitisation. You can do this by playing firework sounds on the TV, gradually increasing the volume as your pet becomes calmer. My colleagues and I are more than happy to chat about this and other ideas in more detail. Please give us a call!
