Helping your pet feel safe this fireworks season

When fireworks are expected, things look a little different at Pet Refuge.

Many of the pets who come into our care are already navigating a lot of change. They're temporarily away from their families, settling into a different environment and routine, and some arrive experiencing heightened fear or anxiety because of what they've been exposed to.

Sudden bangs, bright flashes and unpredictable noises can add another layer of stress.

We're sharing some of the ways our shelter team helps pets feel safe and settled when fireworks are happening nearby — and how you can use the same techniques with your furry family members at home.

PREPARE BEFORE THE NOISE STARTS

At Pet Refuge, we don't wait until a pet is already frightened to start thinking about how we'll support them.

Before it gets dark, dogs can have their usual exercise and enrichment, including brain games and activities that provide mental stimulation. As evening approaches, our focus shifts to keeping things calm, familiar and predictable.

If your pet is sensitive to fireworks, you can do the same at home. Exercise dogs and complete outdoor activities earlier in the day, bring pets inside before fireworks are likely, and make sure doors, windows, gates and other potential escape routes are secure.

A frightened pet may behave differently than usual, so preparing ahead can make a big difference.

GIVE THEM A CHOICE OF WHERE TO FEEL SAFE

One of the most important things we do at Pet Refuge is let each pet show us what makes them feel comfortable.

For some, that's their crate. Others prefer their bed, a quiet room or another familiar spot they've chosen for themselves.

Rather than forcing a frightened pet into a particular area, we give them access to safe options and let them decide where they'd like to settle.

At home, think about where your pet naturally goes when they want some quiet time. Make sure they can access that space and add familiar bedding or a favourite toy if it helps them settle.

If they choose to hide somewhere safe, let them. They can come back out when they're ready.

MAKE THEIR WORLD INSIDE A LITTLE QUIETER

We can't control fireworks happening outside the Pet Refuge shelter, but we can change what's happening inside.

Closing curtains or blinds can reduce sudden flashes of light, while familiar or calming music can help mask some of the unpredictable noise.

You can recreate this at home by closing up the house before it gets dark and using familiar background sound to create a calmer, more consistent environment.

SOMETIMES THEY JUST NEED THEIR PERSON

Every pet responds to fear differently.

Some pets in our care want to stay close to someone they trust. Others would rather retreat somewhere quiet and have some space.

Our shelter team follows their lead.

It's a useful approach at home too. If your pet seeks you out, stay nearby and offer calm reassurance. If they'd rather retreat to their safe space, allow them to do that instead.

Helping an anxious pet isn't about forcing them to behave normally. It's about recognising what helps that individual pet feel more secure.

THINK BEYOND ONE NIGHT

For pets who are sensitive to fireworks, gradual sound desensitisation may help them become more comfortable with the noise over time.

This isn't something we introduce when a pet is already frightened. Recorded firework sounds can be introduced at a very low volume while a pet is relaxed, then increased gradually over time only while they remain comfortable.

If your pet struggles with fireworks, talk to your veterinarian or a qualified pet behaviour professional about whether a gradual desensitisation programme could be appropriate.

Some pets may also benefit from additional support, such as an anxiety coat, veterinarian-recommended calming products or prescription medication. Your vet can help determinewhat'sappropriate for your individual pet and how it should be used.

KNOW YOUR PET

As pet people, we know there's no one-size-fits-all approach to caring for our furry family members.

Supporting a pet's wellbeing starts with understanding the individual pet in front of you and what helps them feel safe and comfortable.

At Pet Refuge, getting to know what makes each pet nervous, what helps them settle and when they want comfort or space is an important part of the individual care we provide.

You can take the same approach at home.

Prepare ahead, create a calm environment and pay attention to what your pet is telling you.

When things outside become loud and unpredictable, helping their world inside feel safe, familiar and secure can make all the difference.