It's Firework Season Again
Last year, the Co-Operative and the RSPCA joined forces to raise awareness of the misery suffered by millions of pets each year in the UK due to fireworks. It won't be long before that season comes around again, and so here at AFI we have decided to start reminding people once again of the importance of being safe around fireworks.A leaflet was distributed called 'Bang! Fireworks frighten animals'. It talks about measures that can be taken to keep pets safe throughout the firework season and also how sound therapy is an excellent way of alleviating the fear in dogs of loud noises in general.
In the UK alone around forty five per cent of dogs display symptoms of fear in response to fireworks which equates to around three million dogs that will be affected over the coming weeks. The RSPCA's main objective is to make pet owners aware that they don't have to watch their pets suffer - there are steps that can be taken to treat firework phobia.
The RSPCA chief vet, Mark Evans commented: "Every year, fireworks and other loud noises are a source of great anxiety for many dogs. But what most pet owners don't realise is that this is a treatable problem. Scientifically proven therapy tools, such as the Sounds Scary! CD, can help to teach dogs to be less afraid of fireworks, so that the next fireworks season will be less stressful for both the owner and their dog."
It is easy to download a copy of the leaflet, or find out about other resources available, at the RSPCA website to take steps to help your pet cope with the annual festivities.
In addition to this, animal welfare charity The Blue Cross has got lots of helpful information and hints on how to make sure your pets are looked after during fireworks season, with downloadable leaflets as well as a Fireworks "Petcast".
Along with ensuring your pet has good pet insurance cover , desensitizing your pet to fireworks, and helping them through this often very distressing time, is a wonderful way of showing you care.
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