Seasonal Fears

Recently I have completed a survey asking about pet’s fears. From final results it was apparent that owners of pets are concerned for their furry balls of love and season of loud noises and fireworks. More than 50% admitted to over-fuss their pets without actually knowing that this reaction will make it worse. Fear of fireworks usually does not get better on it’s own, in fact it’s likely to get worse over time and you might end up looking for an animal behaviourist for some serious help.

Each animal react differently to stress. Loud noises and fireworks can make you pet withdrawn, constantly hiding in the dark corners, tense, jumpy or aggressive. Remember that you have to be calm but do not comfort your animal when is hiding or running around panting. This can make your pet worse off in the long run, especially when you are not at home and they are less able to cope. Keep your animal inside during the display of fireworks, take your dog out to toilet before it gets dark and try not to overfeed in the evenings. A firework going off when your dog is outside can lead to fear of evening walks, fear of leaving the house and even aggression caused by stress. Instead prepare a den for when your pet likes to hide and let them hide making sure that there is always fresh water nearby so there is no risk of dehydration and overheating.

In severe panic attacks animal can overheat which leads to dehydration and might cause seizures. If your dog is heavily panting, drooling excessively and has dilated pupils try cold wet towel under his belly to keep the body temperature down.

There are also other remedies such us calming drops or tablets, DAP and specialist sound CDs you can purchase to help your animal cope. There is quite a few companies on the market producing natural remedies so please research and choose appropriate for your dog/cat.

Guinness in his den

www.malamute.org.uk