Handling Pets during Storms and Fireworks can be stressfull, Lee Pachonik from Umgeni Vet has shared the following information to help owners with their stressed pets.Please make sure pets are safe, garden fences and walls are in good order and that pets cannot get out of your property. Do not make excessive fuss of pets in a storm as this enhances silly behaviour.
What you can do to help;
- Make them feel safe by giving them a safe (enclosed) area to sit in
- Play music to disguise thunder
- Draw the curtains.
Calming medicines can be used and are normally better if given on a daily basis and they reach maximum effect after 6 weeks of daily use. Sedatives are generally not used as they can have dangerous side effects to pet. Anxiolytics are used once an animal has been checked by the vet. These will be dispensed by the vet at the vet's discression, if the animal has been given a clean bill of health. These are all highly scheduled products and are locked in the drug safe, so the receptionist or nurse will not be permitted to dispense these drugs.
These rules are laid down by the South African Veterinary Council and Medicines Control Act. Below is a guide as to what can be used safely, do call Umgeni Vet to book a consultation if you feel you need help for your pet.
