Be prepared for Fireworks!

We all know that Bonfire night and the surrounding weeks can be stressful for both pets and owners. The firework season is getting longer and less predictable, with events taking place over multiple weekends, and the odd home displays thrown in the mix too.

Here at Bertie's we have a range of calming supplements that can help your pet to feel calm and relaxed, without any of the drowsy side effects.

As with any calming supplements, these are always best used alongside gentle and consistent training, such as using noise desensitisation on the weeks/months leading up to the event.

If you feel like you need a little help managing your pets fear this firework season, please pop in and speak to a member of staff, or read on for some helpful tips.

One month to go:

Now would be a good time to start some noise desensitisation with your pet. This can be done by slowly and gently getting them used to the sounds of fireworks in the home. There are plenty of Youtube videos available with fireworks sounds to help you with this.

Its best to follow your pets lead with this and don't react to the sounds yourself, this includes making a big fuss over your pet if they do react. Its important that they know they are safe, and sometimes our anxiety about them becoming stressed can rub off on them and give the impression that there is something to be worried about.

Start off with the sounds on the lowest volume, maybe put them on whilst you are doing something that is part of your every day routine that your pet is used to, (Doing the housework, cooking dinner, working from home, getting the kids ready for bed), keep a close eye on their behaviour, if they are showing any signs of stress or anxiety stop and try again at a different time.

You can reward calm responses with treats, or play and once your pet seems happy with the current volume level, you can try it slightly louder.

Its important to be consistent with this type of training and conduct short sessions regularly, rather than long sessions sporadically.

This type of training isn't a quick fix and is something that you will need to be patient with and go at your pets own pace.

Now would also be a good time to start supplements such as Dorwest Scullcap & Valerian tablets or Aniforte Calm & Relax Powder to give them time to fully get into your pets system and have full effect on the night.

Two weeks to go:

Now would be a good time to set up a calm den or bed area for your pet to hide away if they need to. A crate with a heavy blanket over the top can help to block out some noise, or choose the quietest room in the house to set them up a cosy bed.

You could use calming sprays, plug ins or drops around this area to help them feel relaxed.

One week to go:

Make sure your pets microchip and ID tag are up to date with the correct information. If your pet should panic and manage to escape this will ensure they are able to be reunited with you as soon as possible.

The day of:

Use background music and close all windows and doors to help block out as much noise as possible. Try to act normal as your pet looks to you for cues as to whether they need to be worried, if you are nice and calm it will help them to realise that there's nothing to be afraid of. Stay home with your pet to reassure them with your presence.

Valerian Compound can be used as a top up to other calming supplements, this is given as a drop either directly into their mouth or on a treat. This quick acting drop will get to work in as little as 30 minutes and will last for a couple of hours.