Seasonal care
Fireworks, Thunderstorms and Noise Fear
What actually helps a frightened animal during loud events, and what to plan weeks in advance.
Prepare a den before the season
Build a covered, cushioned hiding place in an interior room, ideally one the animal already chooses. Introduce it weeks ahead with food and calm attention so it is already a safe place by the time it is needed.
On the night
Close windows and curtains, play steady background sound, feed a large meal early, and let the animal hide where it wants. Comforting a frightened animal does not reinforce fear — that myth has been thoroughly discredited.
Rabbits, guinea pigs and birds
Move outdoor hutches into a shed or garage with ventilation, provide extra bedding to burrow into, and partially cover runs. Birds need their cage covered and moved to an interior room.
When to involve your vet
Severe noise phobia is treatable. Vets can prescribe event medication that genuinely reduces fear, and behaviourists use sound desensitisation programmes over months. Sedatives that immobilise without reducing fear are no longer recommended.