November is upon us, and for many South Africans, this means Guy Fawkes Day is just around the corner. While intended as a celebration, for our beloved pets, it often marks a period of intense fear and anxiety due to the widespread use of fireworks. The loud bangs, flashing lights, and unexpected detonations can be a truly traumatic experience for dogs and cats, leading to stress, injury, and even pets going missing.

As responsible pet parents, our duty is to prepare thoroughly. This Guy Fawkes, let’s make a proactive plan to ensure our furry family members are as safe and comfortable as possible. Here’s your ultimate checklist:

Before the Fireworks Begin (Ideally Days in Advance):

1. Update Identification: This is non-negotiable. Ensure your pet’s microchip details are current with your vet and the relevant database. Check that their collar has an ID tag with your current phone number. Many pets flee in panic; up-to-date identification is their best chance of being reunited with you.
2. Create a Safe Haven: Identify a ‘safe room’ in your home – a quiet interior room with no windows or heavy curtains to block light. Set it up with their favourite bed, blankets, toys, and a bowl of water. Consider playing calming music or white noise to help mask the sounds of fireworks.
3. Exercise Early: On the day of Guy Fawkes, take your dog for a long, vigorous walk early in the day, well before any fireworks are likely to start. A tired dog is a calmer dog.
4. Early Meal & Toilet Break: Feed your pet their evening meal earlier than usual, and take dogs out for their last toilet break before dusk. You want them safely inside and settled before the noise begins.
5. Consult Your Vet (If Necessary): If your pet has severe anxiety, speak to your vet well in advance about calming medications, pheromone diffusers, or anxiety-reducing supplements. Never give human medication to your pets without veterinary guidance.

During the Fireworks (Dusk onwards):

1. Keep Pets Indoors & Secure: This is paramount. Even if your yard is fenced, a panicked pet can find a way out. Keep all windows and doors closed.
2. Draw Curtains/Blinds: This helps to block out the flashes of light, which can also be startling.
3. Provide Distraction & Comfort: Offer special chew toys or a puzzle feeder filled with their favourite treats (like our [Your Brand Name] kibble!). Engage in gentle play if they are receptive, or simply sit quietly with them.
4. Act Calmly: Your pets pick up on your emotions. Try to remain calm and reassuring. If they come to you for comfort, offer it gently. Avoid over-fussing or scolding them for anxious behaviour, as this can inadvertently reinforce their fear.
5. Mask the Noise: Turn on the TV or radio to a moderate volume to help drown out the external bangs. Calming classical music or specially designed pet anxiety playlists can be particularly effective.
6. Do NOT Punish: Never scold or punish your pet for showing fear. This will only increase their anxiety and erode their trust in you.

After the Fireworks:

1. Check Your Yard: Before letting pets outside, quickly check your garden for any firework debris that could be toxic if ingested or cause injury.
2. Resume Routine: As soon as possible, return to your pet’s normal routine for feeding, walks, and playtime. Predictability helps to restore a sense of security.
3. Monitor for Lingering Anxiety: Some pets may show signs of stress for a day or two after. Continue to offer reassurance and maintain a calm environment.

Guy Fawkes Day can be challenging, but with proper preparation and understanding, we can significantly reduce the stress and physical risks for our beloved South African pets. Your proactive steps will make all the difference.