Dorwest- here to chill

Tip: Consider starting firework desensitisation programmes. That gently introduce the sound of fireworks to your pet in the hope of helping them realise that they have nothing to fear

Tip: Creating a safe, snug area for your pet to retreat to if they feel anxious helps them if they feel things are getting a bit too much to handle. A pet crate covered with a heavy blanket helps block some of the noise

Tip: Make sure that your pet’s microchip details are up to date and they are wearing a collar with an ID tag, so that if they escape, they can be quickly and safely returned to you

Tip: TVs and radios can help provide some background noise. Act normal. Your pet looks to you for cues as to whether they need to be worried so stay with your pet to reassure them with your presence.

Scullcap & Valerian Tablets

Uses: Can be used as a singular administration but more effective when used as part of a phobia desensitisation programme.

Administration instructions:

Dogs and Cats: 1 tablets for every 5kg bodyweight daily split morning and night. When the stressful situation is at its worst, this dose can be doubled.

For fireworks give the second administration 2 hours before dusk and maintain double dosing for as long as it is necessary .

Valerian Compound

Contains pure extracts of three herbs in liquid form, which ensure it acts within just 30 minutes and is best used as a top up or for one off occasions

Uses: Can be given in addition to Scullcap & Valerian Tablets as a top- up for especially frightening or unplanned events.

Administration instructions:

Dogs: By mouth or in food- Small dogs: ¼ tsp, medium dogs ½ tsp, large dogs 1tsp, giant breeds 1-1 ½ tsp.

Cats: A few drops on the bedding and a further ¼ tsp by mouth or in food when fireworks are severe or in other stressful situations.

How do these differ from others designed to calm pets?

The herbs are nervines, which means they help to naturally relax the nervous system, reducing anxiety but not immobilising muscles or sedating.

They don’t make pets dopey or sleepy – in fact they are widely used for agility and show dogs when they need to be alert and focussed

Do they really work?

Scullcap & Valerian Tablets help anxiety and nervousness.

The evidence that we take the most pride in though are the testimonials from our wonderful customers telling us about how the products have helped their pets over the last 40 years.

How are they best used?

Scullcap & Valerian Tablets used daily provide better coverage and are ideal to start using up to a month before Fireworks Night so pets are already relaxed before the scary noises starts. However, even if you only start the day or so before your pet will still benefit.

Valerian Compound is quicker-acting and is perfect to use orally as a ‘top-up’ and for unpredicted events such as neighbours having a fireworks display or a thunder storm. Cats especially love it if a few drops are placed on a cloth wherever they sleep, to help them relax.

Both products can be used alone, or alongside other medications, as part of a wider phobia management plan.

Are they safe?

As previously mentioned, both products can safely be used together and/or alongside other medications, as part of a wider phobia management plan.

Due to the difficulties of performing specific safety tests, we are unable to recommend Scullcap & Valerian Tablets for use during pregnancy or lactation. Don’t sit and worry though - we are always available via our advice line for any questions or queries.