PET owners throughout Okehampton are being urged by local vets to prepare early for fireworks night.
Although it is only October, Kirstin Phippard from Okeford Vet Centre is warning owners to start thinking about November 5.
She said: 'Implementing a plan now will ensure your pets are safe and experience the minimum amount of stress and anxiety at this time of year.'
There are a number of things which can be done several weeks before the event to prevent stressing out any pets who are frightened by fireworks or loud noises.
For example, Kirstin said to establish a 'safe place' for them to hide indoors, which could be under a table or in a cupboard in a quieter area of the house.
Pet owners are asked to make it familiar to their animals by placing their bed and toys around the area.
Kirstin also suggested that people should try plugging a 'Dog Appeasing Pheromone' (DAP) diffuser nearby at least three weeks prior to the fireworks beginning. These release substances which are naturally secreted by the lactating bitch and provide a calming effect on her puppies.
These pheromones have been proven to work on adult dogs to reduce the clinical signs of fear associated with fireworks, including panting, pacing, hiding and trembling.
She said: 'Once the fireworks start, keep dogs and cats indoors after dusk, close all windows and doors and draw the curtains.
'Try putting the television or radio on to mask the noise of the fireworks.
'Never get angry or fuss your pet if he or she gets scared, it only convinces them there is something to be frightened of and reinforces their fearful behaviour.'
She advised trying to distract pets by playing games, but if they want- ed to hide away in their 'safe place' indoors, to let them, but try not to leave them alone.
Kirstin said that vets can also help with medication to relieve the anxiety.