Toronto Humane Society and NextDoor Team Up to Offer Tips for Keeping Pets Safe During the Toronto Airshow 

TORONTO, ON. – August 29– As the Canadian International Air Show returns this year, the skies over Toronto will be filled with the thrilling sounds of aircraft. While the event is a favourite for many, the loud noises and sudden sounds can be distressing for pets, leading to fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS). To help pet parents across the GTA keep their furry companions calm and safe, Toronto Humane Society is collaborating with NextDoor to spread awareness and share expert tips with local families. 

“Loud noises, such as those produced by aircraft, can be particularly distressing for pets,” said Dr. Jacklyn Ellis, Director of Animal Behaviour at Toronto Humane Society. “Understanding your pet’s needs and taking proactive steps to reduce their exposure to these triggers can greatly help in managing their fear and anxiety.” 

Top Tips to Keep Your Pets Calm During the Airshow: 

• Create a Safe Space: Ensure your pet has a quiet, comfortable place inside your home where they can retreat to if they feel scared. A basement or a room with minimal windows can help reduce noise levels. 
• Use Sound Masking: Play calming music or turn on the TV to help mask the sounds of the aircraft. White noise machines can also be effective in drowning out the noise from outside. 
• Provide Comforting Items: Offer your pet their favourite toys, blankets, or a piece of your clothing with your scent on it. Familiar objects can provide comfort and help reduce anxiety. 
• Consider Calming Products: There are various products available, such as pheromone diffusers, calming wraps, or anxiety-reducing supplements, which can help soothe your pet during stressful events. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations. 
• Keep Pets Indoors: If possible, keep your pets inside during the Airshow, especially during peak noise periods. Never leave pets outside unsupervised, as they may become frightened and attempt to escape. 
• Ensure Your Pet Has Proper Identification: In the event your pet does run away in fear, it’s crucial that they can be easily identified and returned to you. Make sure your pet is microchipped and has a collar with an up-to-date ID tag. 
• Stay Calm Yourself: Pets often pick up on their pet guardian’s emotions. Staying calm and providing reassurance can help your pet feel more secure. 
• Exercise Before the Event: Ensure your pet gets plenty of physical activity before the Airshow begins. A tired pet is more likely to rest and less likely to be stressed by the noise. 
• Seek Professional Help: If your pet has a history of severe anxiety during noisy events, it may be beneficial to consult with a veterinary behaviourist for tailored advice and possible interventions. 

This collaboration between Toronto Humane Society and Nextdoor aims to reach pet parents throughout the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), ensuring that families are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to protect their pets during the Airshow. 

Dr. Ellis added, “It’s important to remember that every pet is different. What works for one animal may not work for another. Observing your pet’s behaviour and responding to their specific needs is key to helping them navigate stressful situations like the Toronto Airshow.” 

For more information on how to keep your pets safe and calm during the Canadian International Air Show, please visit Toronto Humane Society’s website or your local NextDoor community page. 

About Nextdoor

Nextdoor is the neighbourhood hub for trusted connections and the exchange of helpful information, goods, and services. Nextdoor believes that by bringing neighbours together, we can cultivate a kinder world where everyone has a neighbourhood they can rely on. 

About Toronto Humane Society

Toronto Humane Society’s mission is to improve the lives of animals. The organization excels in all ways an animal shelter should, with industry- leading shelter care, veterinary services, animal training and behaviour consultations. Toronto Humane Society believes in the importance of the human-animal bond, finds new homes for thousands of animals and helps keep families together.

Toronto Humane Society is more than an animal shelter. They are an educational resource and support system, a leading voice in animal welfare and accessible care. The organization is also a centre of excellence, a space where best practices and boundary-pushing knowledge meet with unyielding optimism and a love for animals to create something special. Toronto Humane Society is like no other. For more information, visit www.torontohumanesociety.com.