The firework season can be a difficult time for pets and pet owners.

Cheshire Pet Sandbach has shared their top tips for keeping your furry friends happy and stress-free come Bonfire Night.

Fireworks can be frightening for pets. Dogs, cats, rabbits and all other small pets can be affected. 

Thankfully, if you start getting ready early, fireworks season can be made safer and less stressful.

Our veterinary partners at Cheshire Pet Sandbach have some top tips: 

November 5 falls on a Wednesday this year, with many displays taking place the following weekend (Credit: Nub News)

  1. Consider using a calming product (oral supplement or plug-in). Some work best when started early, weeks before fireworks start. Discuss with your vet what is most suitable. These are non-prescription but vets can advise on the best choices. 

·  2.  Prepare a safe place for your pet: a covered crate, a quiet corner with their favourite blanket, or even a space under the bed. Set it up early and let them get used to it being there. Often cats like places high up as they feel more secure. Don't forget small pets that live outdoors! Bring rabbits and guinea pigs inside as they can find fireworks very frightening too. 

· 3.  Adjust your daily routine before fireworks season. Getting your pet used to being indoors before dark can be a big help. Walk dogs earlier, encourage cats to come in sooner, and try moving mealtimes forward. 

·  4. Keep dogs on lead when walking during fireworks season in case of unexpected fireworks. Dogs could bolt if frightened and be in significant danger from traffic etc. Also worth checking that their microchip contact information is up to date in case of this eventuality. 

·  5.  On the evening of local firework events, stay inside with your pet, keep lights on, curtains closed, TV/radio playing and provide them with their safe space. Try to remain calm yourself and interact calmly with your pet. 

·  6. Provide distraction such as a kong chew toy or scattering treats and playing hide and seek so their brain is engaged in something else. 

· 7. Keep doors and windows closed once your pet is inside and make sure you provide a litter tray for cats. 

·    

Follow Cheshire Pet Sandbach's advice and keep your furry friends safe this firework seeason (Credit: Nub News)

"If your pet's phobia is more severe and you are struggling to cope, please contact your vet as soon as possible as we can prescribe medication that will help your pet cope in the short term," said Lucy Tottey, veterinary surgeon at Cheshire Pet Sandbach.

"It is then important to put a plan in place for the following year as some desensitising techniques can take more time. Please reach out to your vet who can advise further. "

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