Firework season is fast-approaching; here is some advice for people with noise phobic dogs from local vets, Vet4life.

Preparation is key and should ideally start during the weeks before fireworks start; here are a few things to consider in the run-up:

• Desensitisation – this involves repeated exposure to the sound of fireworks in a context when the pet is relaxed. CDs such as “Clix Noises and Sounds” and “Sounds Scary” (endorsed by Dogs Trust) are available online and include details of how to desensitise pets to certain sounds. Sometimes the pet may be fearful of something other than the sound (such as the flashing lights) but this will still be helpful.

• Safe hiding place – create a safe place for the pet which is covered over and encourage them to use before the season starts.

• Pheromone diffusers – plug in diffusers, such as Adaptil for dogs release synthetic pheromones to reduce anxiety. These should be plugged into the rooms the pet most often goes in at least a week before fireworks start. Adaptil also produces a collar which can be used for dogs.

During the firework season, dog owners may also want to try these:

• Walking dogs during the day time.

• Closing windows, curtains and turning on the TV or radio to mask the noise.

• Counter-conditioning – this involves linking the fearful stimulus with something the pet unconditionally likes e.g. play or food until the stimulus has gone away. This is great for dogs highly motivated by food or play.

• Natural medication – Zylkene is a protein-based tableted medication which has a similar molecular structure to GABA (a brain neurotransmitter) and can help alleviate anxiety when combined with other therapies. Pet Remedy spray which contains valerian, which has been shown in people to reduce anxiety; this can be sprayed on bedding or in the pet’s safe hiding place. Calmex contains amino acids and plant extracts which can reduce stress and cause mild sedation.

Very often, several or all the above measures are required to help reduce stress created by fireworks.

If the above measures have been taken, but the pet is still showing or likely to show signs of fear, then medical treatment is justified. This involves powerful prescription medications so will require a veterinary health examination before they can be dispensed.

• Alprazolam (Xanax) – acts on GABA receptors in the CNS causing reduced anxiety and amnesia. Best given 30 minutes before the fearful event, but does have amnesic activity if given after to reduce emotional impact of exposure. May cause drowsiness and ataxia.

• Diazepam – similar mode of action to alprazolam.

• Selegiline (Selgian) – modifies concentration of certain neurotransmitters including dopamine. Used in dogs with a more generalised noise phobia (i.e. sensitivity to all loud noises) or showing signs of behavioural inhibition. This takes at least two months to have an effect.

Vet4life is based in Teddington, Shepperton and Surbiton. Please contact direct if you require further advice or help with your four-legged friends – www.vet4life.co.uk, 020 8977 3955.