Bonfire Night can be a very stressful time for a pet owner and their pet. The loud crashes, bangs and booms, and inability to pinpoint where they are coming from can be extremely distressing for a dog and they can perceive it as a threat.The anxiety can also be caused by the smell of the gunpowder, the reaction of other pets or owners and the lights flashing.
If you’re worried your dog is struggling with anxiety from fireworks, some of the key signs include: shaking, whining, hiding and refusing to go out, restless, and clingy. To help pet owners across the country, Bella & Duke’s Expert Dog Behaviourist, Nikki Mather has shared some tips to limit anxiety and combat stress on Bonfire Night in the future:
A long walk or run before dark: This will allow your dog to get their energy out and ensure they’re able to get home before most fireworks are likely to be let off.
Providing a safe space: Having the curtains closed to avoid the flashes of light, provide a bed or crate with a cover that they can hide in, and you can be nearby for comfort, play white noise to help drown out the sound of the fireworks, and reduce stress in your dog.
Be there for your dog: A good option would be to wear comfort clothes that have a familiar scent for your dog and to allow them to cuddle up for reassurance if they are seeking that. Try to remain calm for them so they don’t sense your anxiety for them.
Use calming products: You can purchase calming sprays that can be beneficial to helping your dog relax, chew toys and treats are also a good option to help distract them and relax them – and also just to have a well-deserved treat at an anxious time!
Preparation and patience: Being prepared can help manage your dog’s anxiety ahead of time, instead of acting once they are already afraid. Find out when any local events are planned to reduce the element of surprise and have your safe space and any products, treats or music you may be using ready to go.
Nikki Mather, Expert Dog Behaviourist at Bella & Duke, said: “We all hate to see our pets suffering and seeing the anxiety they go through when hearing fireworks is heartbreaking.
“While there are steps we can take as pet owners to limit the stress they go through, unfortunately there isn’t a magic fix. Patience and preparation will be your greatest allies and remaining calm yourself can help in keeping our pets’ distress to a minimum at this time of the year.”
To find out more information on how to keep your pets calm during Bonfire Night please visit www.bellaandduke.com
Dogs can experience various disorders and health issues because of the noise and unpredictability of fireworks even if they are inside, including anxiety, panic attacks and cardiovascular issues.
If exposed to fireworks displays outside, dogs may experience distress that can lead to agoraphobia, the fear of open spaces and crowds.
This can result in long-term behavioural changes such as trembling, barking, and anxiety when taken outside, even if they previously felt safe.
Owners can keep their dogs safe during firework displays by gradually desensitizing them in advance. Play recordings during positive activities and slowly increase the volume to build their noise resilience.
Other advice includes avoiding walks on bonfire night and using dog body wraps.
Nick Jones said: “Fireworks can be extremely frightening to dogs and exposure to the loud bangs and flashing lights can lead to serious health conditions and disorders, which can unfortunately impact behaviour long term.
“Many owners will be surprised to learn their dog could even develop agoraphobia, a fear of open spaces and crowds if exposed to fireworks.
“In extreme cases, they can get so scared of fireworks and loud displays that they could die of heart attacks.
“This is why it is so important dog owners are educated on how to make the season safer for their beloved pets, including by preparing in advance for displays with desensitising techniques.
“My other advice includes not walking dogs outside if there is a possibility of fireworks, placing cotton wool in their ears, or socks over them and creating a safe, quiet and dark environment for them.”
Six tips to keep a dog safe on fireworks night, according to Nick Jones:
Desensitisation:
Planning for fireworks is essential for dog owners. Desensitisation techniques, like gradually increasing the volume of YouTube fireworks videos while giving treats, can help dogs adapt to the noise. This creates a sense of safety. If your dog struggles during fireworks season, start desensitisation now to help for future events.
Avoid dog walks
Always avoid dog walking during fireworks displays, even if your dog isn’t showing signs of distress. The sudden noises, bangs and flashes could not only cause fear and anxiety but could also make them run away if they are off lead.
DIY ear covers
Consider using inexpensive DIY methods like placing cotton wool under their ears or cutting an old sock to cover their ears to muffle the sounds of loud bangs and minimise distress. This technique may prove difficult on some dogs, so it may be worth investing in proper doggy earmuffs.
Body wrap ThunderShirt
A ThunderShirt is a specific body wrap which provides constant pressure, promoting relaxation. They are a great way to alleviate anxiety during fireworks and help them feel comforted and connected, naturally reducing stress and calming their nervous system.
Dark and soundproof spaces
Create a secure, calm, dark, and soundproof hiding place with blankets and toys to help your dog feel safe. Regularly check on them to ensure they are okay.
Seek professional help:
If no methods are helping and a dog is still showing extreme signs of fear and anxiety, they may need to be taken to a vet or referred to a dog behaviourist ahead of fireworks season for further help.
A peek into the world of working in animal welfare is being offered to students as part of Scottish Careers Week (11-15 November).
Cats Protection, the UK’s largest cat welfare charity, is hosting a one-off free live event aimed at anyone over the age of 11.
The charity’s Education team is inviting teachers, lecturers and other education providers to sign up for the unique learning experience being hosted on to sign up for the talk being hosted on Wednesday, 13 November from 1.45-2.45pm.
Coming live from Cats Protection Scotland Cat Centre in Glasgow, the session will see Community Education Officer Alison Cameron-Russell chatting to staff about their roles and their varied career paths into animal welfare.
Attendees will also be taken on a virtual tour of the centre, meeting the cats in care and seeing what goes on behind the scenes at a busy adoption centre.
Alison said: “It’s going to be a fun, engaging and informative event to inspire young people about the roles available working within a centre at an animal charity, and as an added bonus our audience get to see cats and kittens!
“There are so many rewarding jobs and volunteer opportunities that people may not realise exist, and this talk will offer a window into the fascinating world of animal welfare and the affects people can have in giving cats a better life. The talk is not just open to students so if you’re considering a job change and would like to explore animal welfare sign up.”
Classes, groups, and individuals can sign up to the live session knowing they have been devised to help young people understand and develop their career aspirations.
Campaigners call on brand to ditch cruelly obtained reptile skins
PETA supporters holding signs reading, “Gucci: Ban Wild-Animal Skins,” crashed the grand opening of Gucci’s new Multrees Walk store yesterday to urge the luxury retailer to stop using the skins of tormented snakes and other wildlife in its collections.
Video footage of the disruption is available here.
https://twitter.com/i/status/1837058263302480044
“Every wild animal-skin accessory, from wallets and bags to belts and watch straps, comes from a terrified animal who was beaten, tortured, and skinned – sometimes while still conscious,” says PETA Vice President Mimi Bekhechi, who is from Edinburgh.
“PETA is calling on Gucci to do right by animals by shedding reptile and other ‘exotic’ skins.”
A recent PETA exposé of python farms in Thailand that supply Gucci’s owner, Kering, revealed workers pinning struggling pythons down by the neck, bashing them on the head with a hammer, punching metal hooks through their heads, and inflating their bodies with water – even as the animals continued to move.
A growing number of fashion brands have dropped wild-animal skins – including Burberry, Chanel, Marc Jacobs, Mulberry, Victoria Beckham and Vivienne Westwood – and many more are meeting the demand for sustainable animal-friendly products by offering vegan leather options made from a wide range of innovative materials such as mushrooms, apples, corn, and cacti.
PETA – whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to wear” – opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview. For more information, please visit PETA.org.uk or follow the group on Facebook, X, TikTok, or Instagram.
With warnings that temperatures could reach 27°C in parts of the UK on Monday, leading vet charity, PDSA, is urging pet owners across the country to be vigilant for heatstroke, which can be fatal.
This summer has seen periods with record amounts of rainfall and while the nation is familiar with mild weather, we’re often less prepared for scorching hot temperatures – especially when it comes to looking after our pets.
PDSA is warning pet owners to take extra care as the mercury rises, with the risk of furry family members experiencing heat-related illnesses significantly heightened.
PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: “Last year we treated over 300 cases of heatstroke, demonstrating the danger that hot temperatures can pose to our pets.
“On average, cats and dogs have a normal body temperature of 38-39°C, but heatstroke can strike once the body temperature starts to rise above 40°C – just a degree or two above their normal, making it incredibly important that pet owners recognise early signs and respond quickly to stop their pet’s body temperatures rising further.
“Without acting fast, heatstroke can cause serious health problems, including seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding, coma and even death. It becomes increasingly dangerous the longer it lasts, so the quicker you cool your pet down and then get them treatment from a vet, the better their chance of a full recovery.
“Whilst heatstroke is a scary prospect, familiarising yourself with the early warning signs and understanding how to administer first aid should the worst happen will help you keep your pet safe. In addition, knowing if your pet is at even higher risk helps you to put extra safety measures in place.
“Flat-faced dogs and cats can struggle to cool themselves. Dogs lose heat by panting, as well as through their paw pads and nose, whilst cats will lick themselves to cool down, breathing out to release heat as they do so.
“With much less space in their short noses, pets with flatter faces struggle to release body heat when they breathe out – so it’s important to take extra care to make sure they don’t over-heat in warm weather. Pets that are young or elderly, unwell, overweight or have dense coats are also at increased risk.
Know the signs
“Heatstroke symptoms can vary but during any hot weather spell, regularly check to see if your pet is excessively panting or having trouble breathing. Foaming around the mouth or vomiting, gums changing from a salmon pink colour to bright red or later, pale, trying to rest or appearing confused are all tell-tale signs. In more severe cases, heatstroke can take the form of your pet collapsing or having a seizure.
First steps
“If your pet is showing signs of heatstroke, you must administer first aid immediately. First, move your pet indoors to a cool room or into the shade, and start cooling them off. Gently pour cold water over their whole body, starting slowly to avoid them panicking. Be extremely careful they don’t inhale any water by keeping it away from their nose and mouth.
Cooling techniques
“With the air humid, it’s important to create a cool environment for your pet to cool down in. Create a breeze by opening windows and doors, and by turning on a fan and closing any curtains or blinds. Placing your pet on a cold, wet towel will help cool them further, but don’t put the towel over them as this can actually hold heat in. Whilst it’s important not to force them, offer your pet a drink of cool water.
Seek further assistance
“Even if your pet appears visibly cooler, it’s important you still contact your local vet as soon as possible. Transport your pet in an air-conditioned car or keep the windows open, making sure they are safely restrained inside the vehicle. If you can, bring a passenger with you who can keep an eye on your pet whilst you travel, and take plenty of drinking water for them.
“In severe cases, your vet may need to run blood and urine tests, put them on a drip to support their organs, and give them medication to prevent any further damage alongside further cooling. If this is the case, your pet may need to stay in the hospital for several days. Once stable and back home, you will need to monitor them closely for 24-48 hours, and let your vet know if they deteriorate or develop further symptoms.
Learn how to prevent heatstroke
“While nobody can control the weather, there are ways to prevent heatstroke from developing, and prevention is always better than cure. Regular grooming will help your pet to regulate their temperature as it prevents build-up of excess hair – especially if they are a giant breed or have a thicker coat.
“Don’t be tempted to go out for walks with your dog during peak heat hours. Not only might the pavement be too hot for their sensitive paws, but going for walks at the hottest time of the day can cause them to overheat. Walking before 8am or after 8pm when the sun is at its lowest will be a cooler alternative. If temperatures remain high though, it’s far safer for your dog to miss a walk than risk them overheating. Remember, dogs can become seriously unwell and even die on hot walks.
“If your pet has ongoing health problems, is overweight, or is a flat-faced breed, they will need extra TLC to keep them safe and hydrated. Excess weight can put a pet’s body under additional strain, and they will have thicker insulation from the excess body fat.
“Move small pets away from windows if kept indoors, and for those who live outside, cover a part of their run to provide shade, making sure there is always a draft of cool air. For pets that need to go outside for the toilet, they may find themselves enjoying the sun and stay out for too long, so keep an eye on them and call them back in before they get too warm”.
For more information on heatstroke in pets and how to prevent it, visit:
Proposals to introduce a strict licensing framework for canine fertility businesses have been announced.
The planned licensing scheme will clamp down on unethical breeding practices, regulate the services offered, ensure higher standards of care and protect animal welfare.
Businesses offering canine fertility services will be licensed annually, and subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with licensing conditions.
The proposals are a response to concerns raised by those in the veterinary profession and key animal welfare organisations regarding the unregulated nature of businesses offering canine fertility services.
Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said: “It is clear to me that there are significant concerns about the activities of canine fertility businesses. It is unacceptable that these businesses can operate with little in the way of regulatory oversight or accountability.
“Our decision follows careful consideration of the views expressed following public consultation last year, as well as extensive discussions with those in the veterinary profession, animal welfare organisations and local authorities.
“Our intention to bring in these measures demonstrates that we remain firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of animal welfare in Scotland.”
Scottish SPCA Director of Innovation and Strategic Relations Gilly Mendes Ferreira says: “We have seen a surge in the establishment of canine fertility businesses in recent years, especially involving high value breeds like French Bulldogs who often struggle to give birth naturally.
“We welcome the Scottish Government’s responsiveness to our concerns and support the move to license these businesses. It will be imperative that licensing inspections are conducted by registered, experienced veterinary surgeons.
“We look forward to collaborating closely on the details of the new framework for licensing these establishments in Scotland.”
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed proposals announced today (16 August) by the Scottish Government to crack down on unregulated canine fertility clinics and unethical dog breeding practices in Scotland, following a sustained nationwide campaign by vets and animal welfare organisations.
Under the planned scheme, any businesses offering dog fertility services will need to get an annual licence and be subject to regular inspections.
The announcement follows recommendations published by BVA and BSAVA earlier this year, which included the licensing of establishments offering canine breeding services, a strengthening of enforcement of existing animal welfare regulation, and the closure of the legal loopholes that are allowing unregulated breeding practices to flourish.
Responding to the Scottish Government announcement, BVA President Dr. Anna Judson said: “The British Veterinary Association is pleased to see the Scottish Government act on the veterinary profession’s recommendations and take the lead in clamping down on unregulated canine fertility clinics.
“Vets across the UK have raised concerns over the growth in facilities offering dog breeding services without any qualifications or veterinary oversight over the last few years, fuelling a potential animal welfare disaster.
““Licensing is a hugely important first step in this crackdown. Any dog breeding facility must also have a named RCVS-registered vet in place, with requirements for active veterinary involvement and oversight at the facility at all times.
“Of course, licensing can only be successful if it is accompanied by mandatory inspections, sufficient funding for local authorities, and tough penalties for anyone found to be operating outside the law. We look forward to working with the Scottish Government in the development of a robust licensing framework.
“We are now calling on governments in England, Wales and Northern Ireland to follow suit and act swiftly to address this pressing issue of dog welfare and breeding.”
Recommendations from BVA and BSAVA’s joint policy position on canine breeding services, published in January this year, can be seen at:
Three Animal Rising supporters were sentenced yesterday (5/8/24) at St Albans Crown Court for conspiring to cause criminal damage at the Hatfield site of Arla Foods, concluding the trial for the 13 supporters that took action in 2022.
Last week (31/07/24) ten supporters were sentenced at the same court for the same offence. In total, the thirteen defendants received sentences totalling 1,550 hours of community service, 168 months sentencing, suspended, and £56,875 in compensation.
Today’s defendants received sentences totalling £11,200 compensation, 40 days rehabilitation, 100 hours of community service and suspended sentences totalling 46 months.
The actions were part of Animal Rising’s (then Animal Rebellion) 2022 “Plant-Based Future” campaign, which aimed to stop the supply of dairy in the UK, and call on the government to transition to a just and sustainable plant-based food system.
Court concluded with all defendants being ordered to pay fines, and most receiving suspended sentences by Judge Lana Wood after the trial began in April.
Supporters had been charged with conspiracy to cause £581,000 worth of damage during their disruption of the dairy supply chain at the Hatfield site of Arla Foods in 2022.
Claudia Penna-Rojas, Animal Rising spokesperson, said: “In the past week, the defendants have been hit with harsh sentences and costly fines for bringing attention to the detrimental climate breakdown that the dairy industry causes.
“The dairy industry and animal agriculture as a whole significantly contribute to water usage, habitat pollution, and species extinction.
“In the midst of climate and ecological breakdown, addressing animal and environmental health is needed now more than ever. We need the government to lead the transition to a just and sustainable plant-based food system for a world where animals and humans can live together peacefully.”
Anna Wilkinson, one of the defendants, said: “Arla do not need compensation; they will be insured to the hilt, and, as the largest dairy producer in the UK, they recorded profits of €380 million in 2023.
“This ruling is really about trying to make sure people are deterred from protesting against the harm done by Arla and other large companies to the environment, humans and animals.
“However, history teaches us that people will not be stopped by such measures and will continue to speak out.”
In 2018, a study from the University of Oxford found that a global transition to a plant-based food system would free up 76% of farmland that could then be rewilded to draw down carbon and provide habitats for endangered species [4]. Moving away from animal agriculture would reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water usage while improving conditions for biodiversity.
Animal Rising is a social movement to create a new relationship with all beings and give us a chance for a safe ecological future. The group primarily calls for the transition to a secure and sustainable plant-based food system, alongside a mass rewilding programme.
Pet owners in Edinburgh and Midlothian who are struggling to afford to care for their pets are being given the opportunity to attend drop-in Pet Care sessions at four locations across the city.
Providing support, and guidance, the Pet Care Clinics are an in-person service which allows veterinary experts who volunteer for the Edinburgh Dog and Cat to support owners with basic behavioural queries, providing equipment to support training, advice on welfare, wellbeing checks and signposting to available services and support.
The monthly drop in sessions take place at Simon Community Scotland, Food Facts Friends (Penicuik), Craigmillar’s Edinburgh Food Project and the Salvation Army in Granton.
These venues are also supported by the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home’s food bank service, which works with 87 pet food bank providers across East and Central Scotland, providing meals to pet owners who would otherwise not be able to afford to feed their beloved pets.
The cost of living crisis has impacted the ways in which some pet owners care for their animals with some being forced to surrender their pets due to being unable to afford to care for them. From January to April 2024 the Home received 458 surrender requests from those struggling to keep their pet, they administered 104 vaccinations to animals in their care and provided 181 free pet essential items to owners in need.
Jamie Simpson, Director of People and Services at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said,“ We are seeing a worrying increase in the number of pet owners who are unable to afford vet treatment and don’t know where to go to get advice on training, behaviour, nutrition or general pet care.
“We want to take action to prevent minor issues, behavioural or veterinary, becoming much bigger issues and in doing so prevent a pet owner from potentially having to give up their pet.
“Our Pet Care clinics include a volunteer vet to support with basic pet care advice and are delivered in partnership with local organisations in a hub setting to allow owners to find support and advice under one roof.
“The aim is to support pet owners with advice as well as to signpost them to other support and in doing so, keep pets in loving homes.”
Volunteer vet, Victor Bates said, “For many of the people seen via Pet Care, the impression is that their pets are sometimes the one real emotional support and constant in their lives.
“I think that Pet Care helps to at least reduce some of the worries that people on low or no incomes have about feeding and ensuring the well being of their pets and companions.”
Volunteer vet, Susan Little said, “As a local vet with some spare time, I enjoy being able to help and advise people, whilst sharing in their stories of their pets, with all their adventures and mischief.
“Being part of a regular, small team of friendly faces allows trust to be built up, so that folk feel comfortable to confide in us about the issues they are facing. “We are able to give general support and advice, along with being able to make a bit of fuss of any dogs which they bring along.
“A bit of chat and humour with the people coming along to the sessions makes it an inclusive, welcoming time, which is rewarding for volunteers and owners.”
Hugh Hill from Simon Community Scotland said, “‘Across all our services we support people to stay connected with their dogs.
“We recognise the companionship and care each receives from each and in many cases it isn’t simply the most important relationship in their lives, it can be the only one. Our partnership with Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has been hugely valuable in supporting owners and their dogs to stay together and have the support to maintain that powerfully healthy relationship.”
Please contact foodbanks@edch.org.uk if you would like to support the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home by running a pet food drive at your place of work or community group, or if any pet food store/business would like to help with donations.
Cats Protection and Dogs Trust have joined forces to help owners keep their cats and dogs safe in the sun this summer.
The two leading pet charities say that despite their different quirks and behaviours, cats and dogs are equally as vulnerable when it comes to hot weather.
Alison Richards, Head of Clinical Services for Cats Protection, said: “We’re a nation of pet lovers and whether you’re a cat person or a dog person – or maybe a bit of both – you’ll want to keep your pet safe this summer.
“Many pets love to enjoy the great outdoors, but it’s important to bear in mind that very hot weather can put them at risk of illness and injury.”
Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director of Dogs Trust, says:“The sunshine might be great for us, however hot weather can cause problems for our canine friends.
“Dogs can’t regulate their body heat in the same way as humans, so extra care needs to be taken, especially when exercising or travelling in the car. In this weather, there is no safe amount of time to leave your dog alone in the car, even if you leave the window open.
“The good news is that steps can be taken to prevent our dogs suffering, such as only walking dogs in the coolest parts of the day, reducing their exercise, ensuring dogs have access to somewhere cool and shady to lay down and making sure they always have access to fresh water.”
The two charities have come up with a checklist to help owners keep cats and dogs safe this summer:
Be sun safe: Very hot weather can cause serious injuries in both cats and dogs. Dogs walked on tarmac can suffer painful burns to their paws, so it’s important to check the ground on warm days. You can do this by holding your hand to the ground for five seconds – if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. While cats will generally find themselves a cool spot on hot days, it’s important to remember they can suffer sunburn and develop skin cancer. Cats with white ears are particularly at risk, so speak to your vet about suitable suncream.
Keep cool: Heatstroke can be serious for both cats and dogs and in some cases, it can be fatal. It’s a good idea to keep your pet indoors between 10am and 3pm on hot days and wait until it’s cooler in the evening to walk dogs or let cats outside. Even in mild temperatures, the biggest cause of heatstroke in dogs is exercise. In both cats and dogs, brachycephalic breeds – those with flat faces such as pugs or Persian cats – will be at increased risk of heatstroke, as their short facial structure can cause breathing difficulties and make it harder for them to keep cool. Kittens, puppies and elderly cats and dogs will also be at higher risk, as will those which have underlying health conditions.
Signs of heatstroke: Cats or dogs suffering with heatstroke will need urgent veterinary treatment, so owners should be familiar with the signs. For both cats and dogs, this can include heavy breathing or panting, excessive drooling, diarrhoea, confusion, restlessness, vomiting, being drowsy and collapsing. If you suspect your pet has been affected by heatstroke, call your vet immediately for advice.
Water and shade: Just like humans, cats and dogs can easily become dehydrated in hot weather, so make sure they have plenty of fresh water. Pop an extra water bowl in the garden if your pet is outdoors a lot, and make sure pets always have access to shade.
Be plant aware: Some garden plants can be highly poisonous, so take a look around the garden to see if there’s anything which may pose a risk to your pet. Lilies are particularly dangerous for cats, and ingesting just a small amount of pollen can be fatal.
Garden hazards: Most cats and dogs love spending more time in the garden in warm weather, so take a few minutes every week to check its safe for them. Check fences for any broken panels which dogs can escape from, or any sharp edges which may catch your pet. If you keep chemicals, engine oils or antifreeze in your shed, make sure these cannot be reached by inquisitive pets, as these can be toxic.
Never leave pets in cars: Pets should never be left alone in cars as even just a few minutes in a hot car can prove fatal. As cats and dogs can’t cool down the same way as humans, the heat can quickly become dangerous for them. If you see a pet in a car in distress, call 999 immediately.
For more information on keeping cats and dogs safe this summer, visit:
