Keeping your pet safe from things that go bump in the night...

With Halloween and Bonfire Night just around the corner, we thought it'd be a good idea to share some tips and ideas on how to make sure your dog has as much fun as you do! This time of year can be incredibly stressful for a lot of pets, with loud noises, strangers calling and a general senses overload. We've lined up a list of things you can do to take the pressure off your pet...

1. Keep your pet indoors. If all is quiet your dog may go out to pee, but be prepared with newspaper or puppy pads on hand just in case. Cats should be kept in overnight.

2. Make a den for your pup to go hide in. It might be a good idea to make the hide out close to you, so your presence can reassure them but they'll still have their own space. A crate or carrier with the sides covered will work, as will a bed with a roof or anything similar.

3. Resist the urge to baby your pet. The more you worry, the more they'll pick up on it. Be calm and in control and they'll follow your lead.

4. If you dog is prone to anxiety then using a thundershirt is a great option, alternatively a close fitting t shirt is a good option.

5. Keeping some low level noise going through the worst of the bangs can help mask the noise, but watch your dogs reaction closely.

6. Keep to your routine, walks aside you should try and keep things as normal as possible.

7. If you're likely to get 'trick or treaters' and you know your dog isn't 100% okay with knocks on the door, it might be worth moving to your back room or even a bedroom.

8. If your dog starts to howl at the noises then correct them using a gentle positive reinforcement technique, shouting will add to their stress and letting them continue doesn't help anybody.

9. If you want to let off fireworks at your home, or go to a show, ask a family member to dog-sit for the night away from all the action.

10. There's always a lot more treats and sweets around at this time of year, so be sure to keep them out of the reach of little paws, chocolate is especially dangerous.

And finally,

11. If your pup is really not coping then don't let them suffer, a bad experience will only make next year harder. Know when to call in the professionals and contact your vet - some cases will need a sedative. Don't see it as a failure, just that extra steps need to be taken ready for next year, such as exposure therapy via a CD.

To read more from some people who are definitely in the doggy know, check out the Kennel Clubs press release!

The 'Holiday Season' should be a fun and festive time for every member of your family, including those with 4 legs. It can be easy to over look the little things, but they can make the biggest of differences. We hope you and your pet stay safe this Halloween and Bonfire Night and we'll be back soon to share what we did to celebrate :)

Love & licks,

Rio, Jonny, Buffy, Rafferty, Monroe, Lily and Lola.
xo