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25th October 2007

Loud fireworks are bang out of order say pet experts

Free guide to protect pets published by Petplan

25 October 2007, London: The UK’s leading pet insurance provider has produced a free guide which will help the nation’s pet owners reduce the injuries, distress and long term behavioural problems caused by loud fireworks to their terrified pets.

Although the Guy Fawkes and Diwali celebrations are loved by many, they cause havoc to pets across the country. However, the insurance provider says that most of this stress and injury can be simply avoided and has produced a free guide of advice for pet lovers.

This is available for download free at www.petplan.co.uk

The simple guide will give owners hints and tips to help their pet get through the firework season with minimal effect.

A specialist in emergency and trauma surgery for both dogs and cats, Marc Abraham who endorses the Petplan guide, is also the resident vet for Channel 4’s The Paul O’Grady Show and It’s Me or the Dog.

“Pets are socialised to accept a comparatively quiet life and any change in that routine affects them. The effect of loud bangs, explosions and flashing lights upsets them and they start to panic,” he says.

“The terrifying noise of fireworks can lead to long-term behavioural problems, and in many cases leave them with an ongoing sensitivity towards noise.

“The Petplan guide offers all owners some simple and effective ideas to protect their pets, which should help prevent stress and injury over the next few weeks.”

Such is the havoc caused, that a recent Petplan survey found that the vast majority of UK vets (79%) and pet charities (91%) would like to ban the public sale of loud fireworks altogether.

Simon Wheeler, head of marketing for Petplan, says that the guide is packed with hints and tips that many pet lovers may not have previously considered.

“The guide offers much more than advice to keep your pet safe from the noise and flashes,” says Mr Wheeler. “For example, mask the noise of fireworks by turning the TV volume up or playing music.”

Editor's Notes

Excerpt from the Petplan Fireworks Guide

• Keep your cat or dog inside, and keep all windows, curtains and doors closed
• Turn on the TV or some music to drown out some of the firework noise
• Provide your cat with a litter tray if it is used to being able to get into the garden
• Make sure your pet is wearing a form of identification. If they manage to escape, you can be easily contacted when your pet is found
• Take your dog for a walk during daylight, when fireworks are less likely to be let off
• Avoid leaving your pets alone – they will feel safer with you around
• Stay calm and act normally. This will help your pet feel safer and lets them know there is nothing to fear

For more information please contact the Petplan press office: