The nights are drawing in and there's a definite buzz in the air. For us, Halloween and Bonfire Night are fantastic fun. We love the costumes, the sweets, and the dazzling firework displays. But for our beloved pets, it can be a really confusing and frightening time. The loud bangs, bright flashes, and constant stream of strangers at the door can be overwhelming. So, how can we make sure our pets stay safe and sound? It’s all about planning and preparation.

The Halloween Howl

Halloween brings a unique set of challenges. People knocking on the door, dressed in strange outfits, can be terrifying for a timid dog or cat. Even the friendliest pet might get spooked. A great way to manage this is to create a safe haven for them.

• A Quiet Retreat: Set up a cosy room or a corner of the house away from the front door. This 'den' should have their bed, favourite toys, and a bowl of water. It's their safe space.
• Walks and Timings: Walk your dog earlier in the day, before trick-or-treaters start their rounds. This gives them a chance to burn off energy and avoids any spooky encounters.
• The Sweet Danger: Chocolate, sweets, and other human treats are very toxic to pets. Keep all Halloween goodies well out of paws' reach. Even the wrappers can cause problems if ingested.

Bonfire Night Bangs

Bonfire Night is often the most stressful event of the year for many pets. The unpredictable nature of fireworks can cause genuine fear. Pets have much more sensitive hearing than we do. A loud bang that makes us jump is a lot louder and more frightening to them.

• Soundproofing and Distraction: Close all windows and curtains to muffle the sounds and block out the flashes. Put on the television or some calming music. This familiar background noise can help to mask the sounds of the fireworks outside.
• An Early Evening: Make sure all your pets are safely indoors before it gets dark. This is particularly important for cats and small animals who live in outside hutches. If you can, bring outdoor hutches into a shed or garage to give them extra protection.
• Stay Calm: Pets can pick up on our stress. Try to act as normally as possible. If they are looking for comfort, give them a gentle cuddle. If they prefer to hide in their safe space, let them. Don't force them out.

Microchipping and ID

With the front door opening and closing more often, there’s an increased risk of a pet bolting out in fear. It’s a good idea to check your pet’s microchip details are up to date. Make sure their ID tag is securely on their collar too. This simple step can be a lifesaver if they do get lost.

Long-Term Solutions

If your pet is particularly anxious during this time, you might want to consider some longer-term solutions.

• Pheromone Diffusers: These plug-in devices release calming pheromones that can help reduce anxiety. They can be a great help when used a few weeks before the season begins.
• Desensitisation: For next year, you could try a desensitisation programme. This involves playing firework sounds very quietly and gradually increasing the volume over a period of time. It helps your pet get used to the noise in a controlled way.
• Speak to Your Vet: Your vet can offer advice and, in some cases, might suggest a calming supplement or medication if your pet's fear is severe.

By taking these small but important steps, you can help your pet feel more secure. It means everyone, furry friends included, can have a happier and safer time during these festive autumn nights.