Bathing Your Dog — blog

Vets have issued urgent advice to pet owners ahead of Bonfire Night.

This year, there are concerns that there will be an increase in unregulated backyard fireworks, as official displays are limited due to coronavirus restrictions.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging pet owners to take steps to protect their animals from distress.

Many animals have more acute hearing than humans, so the loud bangs and whistles – which at 150 decibels can be as loud as the noise from a jet engine - can cause significant distress and fear and lead to the development of phobia responses.

Signs of fireworks-related distress can vary from animal to animal. While some pets show obvious signs of fireworks-related anxiety, such as barking, panting, drooling and attempts to escape, there are also more subtle signs that owners should be aware of, including restlessness and toileting in the house.

Cats often hide, while rabbits may keep very still and thump the ground with their back feet.