Firework season in Dubai can be a stressful time for both humans and their pet companions. Pets may struggle during fireworks season, displaying fear through freezing or, in more dangerous cases, bolting, rearing, or charging fences. As a pet owner, it’s important to be prepared and know how to help your pet if they become scared or anxious during this time.
Here are some measures and tips you can use to help relax and prepare your pet for firework season:
Create a safe and comfortable space for them to retreat to. This could be a crate or a quiet room where they can hide and feel safe. Make sure the space is well-ventilated and has plenty of water available. You can also provide them with a blanket or other comforting object to help them feel more at ease.
To help prepare your dog for the fireworks season, it’s important to take them on walks during the daylight hours before fireworks are set off. This will give them the opportunity to get some exercise, relieve any built-up anxiety, and familiarize themselves with the sounds of the environment before the fireworks begin. By walking your dog during the day, you can help them feel more calm and comfortable when the fireworks start later in the evening.
Bring your outdoor pets – birds, bunnies, or cats indoor before fireworks are set off. This will provide them with a safe and comfortable space where they can retreat to and avoid any potential stress or anxiety.
To help mask the sounds of fireworks for your pets, consider playing music or turning on the television. This can help to drown out the loud noises and provide a more soothing and calming environment for your pets. Choose music or television programs that are calming and not too stimulating, as this will help your pets relax. You can also try playing recordings of fireworks at a low volume to help your pets become accustomed to the sounds.
Close windows and curtains. This will create a barrier between your pet and the outside world, helping to block out the flashing lights and loud noises of fireworks. It’s also a good idea to make sure any gaps or cracks in windows and doors are sealed to prevent any sounds from leaking in…
Make sure your pet is properly identified with a collar and microchipped, in case they do become scared and try to bolt. This will increase the chances of them being returned to you if they do happen to get loose.
Avoid reacting to the noises yourself. This means not showing any signs of anxiety or fear, as this can feed into your pet’s own anxiety. Instead, try to remain calm and relaxed, and avoid overly reassuring your pet with words or actions. The more relaxed you are, the more it will help your pet feel confident and at ease. Remember, the key is to keep the energy calm and avoid feeding into your pet’s anxiety.
Fireworks season can be a difficult time for pets, but with some advance planning and understanding, you can support your pet-friend during these celebrations.