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Storms, fireworks and frightened pets: five ways to help them feel safer
 "Storms, fireworks and frightened pets: five ways to help them feel safer")
There’s plenty to enjoy about the warmer months, from longer walks to more time outdoors with our pets. But thunderstorms and fireworks can make some evenings stressful for our four-legged companions.
Perhaps your dog starts pacing before you hear the first rumble, or your cat disappears beneath the bed when fireworks begin. Different pets respond in different ways, and what comforts one may not suit another.
A little preparation can help. Here are five practical ways to make noisy events easier for your dog or cat.
1. Get ready before the noise starts
If fireworks are planned nearby, bring pets inside early. Take your dog for their usual walk and toilet break beforehand, so you can avoid heading outside during the display.
When storms are forecast, prepare a secure indoor space before the weather changes. Check doors, windows and pet flaps, and make sure your pet’s identification and microchip contact details are current.
Even a pet who normally stays close to home may try to escape when frightened. Never tether your dog outside during fireworks or a storm, as they could injure themselves trying to get away.
2. Let them choose a comfortable retreat
Notice where your pet naturally goes when they want peace and quiet. Their preferred spot may be a bedroom, beneath furniture or beside you on the lounge.
Where possible, offer a familiar room away from outside noise, with fewer windows. Add their usual bedding and keep water accessible.
For cats, provide an easy-to-reach hiding place, such as a covered bed or cardboard box with familiar bedding. Make sure they can access a litter tray without venturing into a busy part of the house.
A crate can help a dog who already enjoys resting there. However, suddenly shutting a frightened dog in an unfamiliar crate may increase distress and lead to injury.
Give your pet a choice. If they are safely tucked away, avoid pulling them out or repeatedly checking on them by disturbing their hiding place.
3. Offer something familiar and enjoyable
Some pets remain interested in food or play during noisy events. An easy, familiar activity may give them something pleasant to focus on.
For dogs
Try a supervised food toy filled with a portion of their usual food, or an easy treat-searching game.
For cats
Offer a familiar food puzzle or gentle play with a favourite toy.
Choose activities they already know, supervise toys and include food rewards in their daily allowance.
If your pet turns away or retreats, let them. They do not need to complete a game or eat a treat. Focus on their comfort instead.
For dogs who remain comfortable enough to participate, pairing manageable noises with enjoyable activities can help build more positive associations. This means offering something pleasant when a noise happens, not making louder sounds to test their tolerance.
4. Soften the surroundings and offer company
Close windows and curtains to reduce outside sounds and flashes. Familiar music, television or gentle background noise at a comfortable volume may help soften sudden bangs. Avoid turning the volume up loudly.
Stay nearby if you can. If your dog seeks reassurance, calmly offer gentle contact. Comforting a frightened dog does not mean you are rewarding their fear.
Let cats decide whether they want company or space, and avoid forcing cuddles or handling. Never punish a pet for fearful behaviour.
If you cannot be home and your dog struggles with noise, consider arranging for someone they know and trust to stay with them. Familiar company can be particularly helpful for dogs who also find being alone difficult.
5. Build reassuring routines on quiet days
Introduce comfortable retreats and enrichment activities when nothing frightening is happening.
For dogs, reward relaxed time on a familiar bed or mat. Over time, it can become associated with comfortable, pleasant experiences. A portable mat can also move to a quieter room or travel with you.
For cats, keep hiding places available every day. Try food puzzles and toys during quiet periods too, so they are familiar when you need them.
You may also see advice about playing storm recordings. These require a careful, gradual approach that keeps the dog relaxed; simply playing loud recordings can make matters worse. Real storms also involve rain, flashes and changes in air pressure, so tolerating recorded thunder does not necessarily mean a dog will cope with a storm.
Find what helps your pet
Start with secure surroundings, a familiar retreat and company or activities your pet enjoys. Notice what helps them settle, and use those preferences to prepare for the next noisy evening.
If your pet panics, risks injuring themselves or becomes increasingly distressed, seek veterinary advice. Home strategies may not be enough for severe noise-related fear.
| Tags:Pet SafetyDogPet BehaviourCat |
