Fireworks n Pets - advice from Congleton Vets

Just a quick note to ask you all to give a degree of consideration to the pets of your neighbours during the coming fireworks season. Every year, I see a handful of animals who get so scared that they manage to escape, and some then run into problems with cars etc. A few guidelines, and then some medical options...:

1) If planning to let off fireworks, please let your neighbours know a few days in advance, and ask them to spread the word.
2) If you have pets that hate fireworks, definately do your best to stay in with them as much as possible during the next few weeks.
3) when fireowrks are going off, leave the lights ON in the room you are in, turn the radio or TV up and draw the curtains.
4) Try NOT to draw too much attention- ie, DONT reassure your pet more than you would normally- it simply confirms in their mind that something is wrong.
5) If you are able to provide a safe haven- eg an indoor kennel/cage, with blanket draped over, that helps them feel safe, and certainly helps protect the home from a destructive, stressed animal.
6) Please consider microchipping, especialy at this time of year. Every year, animals stray because of fireworks, and with a microchip, you can be reunited within the hour! A one off fee, of just £15, so not expensive!

MEDICALLY, there's quite a few products around now, such as:
1) DAP diffuser/collar/spray (dogs), feliway diffuser/spray (cats). These products release a calming pheromone hormone which is detected by the sense of smell. However take a few DAYS to become effective, so need to be started NOW. For dogs, the DAP collar might be the best option, so that the dog carries the source of the hormone around, meaning they can still detect it if they are hiding away.
2) Zylkene capsules- have the same medical benefits as Valium- ie anti anxiety, but without the sedative or addictive effects. brand new drug, but good feedback so far. Available without prescription, so can simply be purchased if needed (I also have a leaflet about it which can be posted/delivered on request).
3) Good old sedatives- now seen as really old fashioned, and better products are available. But for some dogs, these might be the only way. Obviously only available on prescription, and not suitable for pets with heart problems or epilepsy.

Overall, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR PETS, AND THOSE OF YOUR NEIGHBOURS this bonfire night.

Many thanks,

James.
Congleton Veterinary Centre
01260 272 131
Open Mon-Fri 0830-1900
Sat 0830-1300
Sun 1000-1200 (most weeks- please phone first)