2 weeks Ago
Dog owners can get £15 off the cost of their next takeaway thanks to Just Eat this week. New research from Just Eat has found that pet parents do not want to “remember, remember, the 5th of November”, as over half (54%) dread the tradition due to their pets’ fear of fireworks. For some, this time of year is full of fun firework celebrations for Halloween, Diwali, and Bonfire Night, but the reality for pet parents is very different.
With pet owners spending on average 11 nights in November to distract their pets during firework season, Just Eat is thanking them with a voucher worth £15 off. Pet owners just need to type ‘PAW ME’ into the Just Eat chatbot for the chance to get a £15 off voucher code. The codes will be provided on a first come first serve basis.
Andrew Cocker, Marketing Director at Just Eat said: “We know that pet owners across the UK will be cosying up with their furry friends this firework season to keep them safe. “That’s why we wanted to make their night-in extra special, so that pawrents can celebrate while caring for their pet.” Doug McPherson, owner of Babs the corgi, says: “What makes this time of year especially difficult as a pet owner is all the different celebrations happening throughout the month, so fireworks could go off on any given night during this period.
“As a result, I’ve had to cancel a lot of plans at this time of year. I’m sad to miss out on these celebrations, but having a cosy evening in and ordering from Just Eat really lifts my spirits, and means I can be there to do my duty as a pawrent.” To help, animal lover and founder of non-profit organisation Dogs On The Streets, Michelle Clark, provides her top tips to help support and get your pups through the festivities.
Dogs won’t understand that fireworks can’t harm them so will naturally look to hide in a safe space. You can help by creating a ‘safe-haven’ for your dog ahead of bonfire night. This will ensure that they feel as comfortable as possible.
Create a snug space filled with blankets, treats, and their favourite toys to help distract them from the loud noises Simply turning up the volume on the television, playing white noise, or music from a speaker can help disguise the noise from the fireworks, helping calm your dog. At the sanctuary, we play classical and reggae music for our anxious dogs, it’s incredibly effective for creating a calming space. On November 5, take your dogs for a longer walk during the daylight hours so that they feel satisfied during the evening – when firework displays typically start.
If they signal that they need to go outside again during the evening, then let them out for a short break in a familiar setting, which may be in the garden or a quick walk around the block. Anxious dogs are likely to want to stay inside, if that is the case then you should never force your dog outside during fireworks. Every dog is different so it’s important that you understand the needs of your individual pup.
For example, if they seek reassurance, stay close to them, and give them lots of attention and comfort. If your dog wants to hide in its own space, then you should let it rest where they feel safe – don’t force them where they don’t want to be. Your dog may display unwanted behaviour because of the fireworks but you should avoid disciplining them for this as it can only lead to greater distress.
Fireworks are known to make pets anxious so try not to raise your voice and keep as calm as possible to give them the reassurance they need. If you’ve noticed that your dog is showing significant signs of fear and anxiety during fireworks, speak to your vet. They can recommend things such as anxiety shirts or pheromone diffusers, which disperse calming remedies into the room, or if needed, will refer you to a local clinical behaviourist who can create tailored plans to support your pup through it next time.
If you’re unsure as to whether your dog is suffering from anxiety during fireworks, look out for signs of whining or barking, clinginess, excessive panting, holding their tail down between their legs, hiding or trying to escape, pacing, and a loss of appetite..
