Animals and fear of firecrackers: this is what you can do to help them
Between 25% and 50% of dogs and cats are afraid of the noise of fireworks
Anxiety, nervousness, tremors, escape attempts, and excessive salivation. These are just some of the symptoms that many animals can suffer due to firecrackers and fireworks on a night like Saint John's. According to the College of Veterinarians of Catalonia, between 25% and 50% of dogs and cats are afraid of the noise of firecrackers. This is why they recommend paying attention to any physical symptom or behavioral change in the animal, such as hiding under the bed or sofa or increasing the number of meows or barks.
What is behind the fear of firecrackers?
Animals have a much higher auditory sensitivity than people, especially for higher-pitched sounds, which makes the auditory impact of fireworks much greater for them. Furthermore, the fact that these are unpredictable and unexpected sounds further exacerbates their perception of danger, leading them to seek out the most unusual corners to take refuge, or even to want to escape.
An animal's temperament also plays a determining role in whether or not it is afraid on a night like Sant Joan. Also if it has had any traumatic experience linked to a loud noise, especially during its socialization stage.
How to help animals get through Sant Joan night
The first recommendation is to create a safe area where the animal can stay during the hours of greatest fireworks intensity. Whenever possible, it should be in the quietest area of the house, to protect it from outside noise, and with access to its belongings, such as feeders or litter boxes.
It is also important to close windows and blinds to prevent the animal from escaping and to minimize the light flashes from fireworks, which can increase its sense of danger. In addition, the College of Veterinarians of Catalonia also recommends turning on a radio or television to muffle the detonations of firecrackers.
The role of the guardian
The role of the guardian is also essential for accompanying animals that are afraid. This is why it is recommended not to leave them alone on a night like this. Thus, whether they seek refuge among people or prefer to stay hidden, their needs must be respected and under no circumstances should they be forced to go out. Nor should they be scolded.
In the case of dogs, it is also recommended to advance the time of the walk to avoid going out when the fireworks begin. And, if possible, put a harness on them instead of a conventional collar to prevent them from escaping if they get scared.
For cases of extreme fear, the College of Veterinarians of Catalonia advocates consulting with the animal's veterinarian to assess the possibility of giving it some natural supplement or anxiolytic.
