Fireworks and Thunderstorms: Helping an Anxious Pet Cope

Every year around Guy Fawkes and New Year, shelters fill with dogs that bolted in blind panic. Loud, unpredictable bangs are genuinely terrifying for many pets — and our summer thunderstorms bring the same fear. The kindest thing you can do is prepare in advance.

Before the noise starts

• Bring pets indoors well before dark and keep them there. Most escapes happen when a terrified dog is left outside.
• Check their ID and microchip details are up to date — just in case.
• Create a den: a quiet inner room with their bed, a blanket over a crate, curtains drawn. Somewhere they can hide feels safe.
• Tire them out early with a good walk and play session in daylight, so they're calmer by evening.

During the fireworks

• Close windows and draw curtains to muffle sound and hide flashes.
• Put on the TV, radio or a fan for steady background noise.
• Stay calm yourself — pets read our energy. Comfort them normally, but don't fuss so much that you accidentally reward the panic.
• Let them hide if they want to. Never drag a frightened pet out into the open.

For severe anxiety

Some pets shake, drool, or destroy things no matter what you try. Speak to your vet ahead of time — there are safe calming supplements and, for extreme cases, prescribed medication that can make a world of difference. Pheromone diffusers and snug anxiety wraps help some pets too.

The bigger picture

Fear of loud noises often worsens over the years if it isn't addressed. Gentle desensitisation — playing recorded sounds very softly and pairing them with treats over weeks — can genuinely help. A calmer pet makes for calmer, kinder festive seasons for everyone.