5 Tips for Loud Events for Owners in Surrey
Whether it's fireworks, a thunderstorm, or a noisy street party nearby, loud events can unsettle even the most relaxed pet. Here's Weybridge's pick of five healthy, low-stress distractions that can work well across dogs, cats and rabbits. If you're seeking tailored advice, book an appointment today with our friendly team.
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1. Frozen lick mats and stuffed food toys
Licking is naturally calming for most pets, and a frozen lick mat or stuffed food toy can hold their attention for a good stretch of time. Fill with a pet-safe paste or their usual wet food and freeze it in advance so it's ready to go. At Weybridge we advise that with any food toy or puzzle feeder, this one is for supervised use only, as chunks can occasionally break off.
2. Snuffle mats and scatter feeding
Scattering treats across a snuffle mat, hiding a few around the room, or scattering a rabbit's usual vegetables through their enclosure right as the noise begins gives your pet something absorbing to do instead of fixating on what's going on outside.
3. A familiar safe space
Having access to a den, covered crate, or a quiet corner with familiar bedding gives an anxious pet somewhere to retreat to the moment the noise starts. Our team in Weybridge find that pets often settle faster when they've chosen the spot themselves, rather than being placed there. If you can set up a safe space (or spaces) a month or two before so your pet can get used to it, this can often help during the event.
4. A favourite chew or comfort toy
Offering a favourite chew or comfort toy right as a loud event begins gives your pet something familiar and repetitive to focus on instead of the noise. At Weybridge we find that with dogs in particular, the chewing action can have a calming effect. Keep this one supervised too, in case of any small parts.
5. Background noise to mask sudden sounds
One trick our team in Weybridge suggest is to put the television or radio on at a normal volume as soon as you know a loud event is starting. This can help take the edge off unpredictable bangs and knocks from outside. It's a simple, passive option that may make a noticeable difference on its own.
When distraction isn't quite enough
These distractions work well in the moment for everyday noise sensitivity, but if your pet's reaction to loud events seems more severe, or has been getting worse, it may be worth ruling out anything else going on. Come over to Weybridge and a member of our team will be happy to take a look.
Book a health check
If you'd like some reassurance, or a plan tailored to your pet's individual needs, our team in Weybridge are here to help - book a health check with us today.