Flossie in a frenzy over fireworks

This time of year is a challenge because Flossie is one of the many animals petrified of fireworks.

I manage her fear as best I can. The curtains are tightly shut, the TV on at full blast as is the ‘calming music for dogs’ programme on the radio. Various natural remedies are given and she has a safe place to go. However, it was all to no avail this year.

We went out into the garden early in the evening and, unfortunately, just as she was looking for a place to perform, a tirade of ear-splitting bangs catapulted into the skies.

Well, that was it. She bolted inside as if she was being chased by tigers, her garden business forgotten until the following day.

She spent the next several hours in a state of extreme terror, shaking like a leaf, panting and whining. It sounded like a war zone outside but she was terrified even during the quieter moments. No amount of calming activities helped. It was very distressing for both of us.

We decamped upstairs to my bed which she seemed to favour. I switched the fan on and played music loudly which helped muffle the more distant fireworks.

But nothing could disguise the cracks, bangs and whistles close by. We had to endure the ordeal as best we could, eventually falling into an exhausted and restless sleep.

The following morning, I phoned our wonderful vet Gwen at Kelston Vets, explained the situation and my concern about a repeat performance that night. I wanted to avoid any further prolonged distress so she administered some medication that we hoped would help Flossie feel sleepy. Thankfully, it did.

I know many people enjoy fireworks. I used to, but I don’t anymore. Not now I’ve seen the absolute terror they cause to animals. I am prepared for the inevitable deluge on New Year’s Eve but I’ll also keep hoping that the petitions I sign every year to restrict their use may one day have a positive effect.