Keep your pets safe this Bonfire Night

Tesco Bank has teamed up with celebrity vet and This Morning regular Dr Scott Miller to offer owners guidance on keeping their pets safe on the 5th of November.

Bonfire Night is traditionally a difficult time of year for our furry friends, as the flash and bang of fireworks sends stress levels through the roof. But by adhering to some or all of these tips, you can ensure it will only be the fireworks working themselves into a frenzy on the night!

Dr Scott Miller advises that pets are well exercised during the day and safely indoors before dark, while owners should avoid leaving animals alone on the big night itself. Drawing curtains blocks out light and dampens sound which can help keep your pet calm.  Why not prepare for the event with special desensitising CDs which can help accustom pets to any loud and unpredictable noises? Remember to let pets react in their own way, and be sure to stay relaxed yourself, as cats and dogs react to human cues.

Below are a few more tips to keep your pets safe and relaxed:

Play dance music - the consistent beat will cover the bangs of the fireworks.

Make a den - animals naturally hide when scared, and providing a safe and sheltered place can keep them calm.

Distract dogs by playing a game together, and offer cats treats to ease their worry.

Try a ‘thunder shirt', which uses constant gentle pressure to calm canine anxiety, or ‘mutt muffs' to protect your dog's ears.

Dr Scott Miller comments, ‘We have noticed a clear spike in owners seeking advice before bonfire night, as well as in the incidence of stress-related injuries in the days after.  Noise phobia in animals can worsen from year to year so it is especially important that pet owners do all they can to help support their animals through the bonfire night period.  As the UKs number one choice for cats and dogs Tesco Pet Insurance appreciates how much British families cherish their pets. Tesco Pet Insurance provides the requisite protection should anything happen to them and offer a choice of three different cover levels with up to £7,500 for vet fees.'

Tesco Pet Insurance Standard and Extra cover offers simple and affordable protection for your pets, with a 20% online discount for new customers in year one and an additional discount for Clubcard holders, a 24 hour vet helpline and a fixed excess, so you'll always know what you need to pay if you make a claim.

For more information on exclusions and excesses, visit tescobank.com.