Godmanchester charity Woodgreen Pets partners with Protexin to support 120 pets in care this firework season

Protexin, the leaders in pet gut health, have partnered with Godmanchester-based Woodgreen Pets Charity to support the 120 dogs and cats in its care ahead of firework season.

As part of the partnership, Woodgreen will be using Protexin SereniCare, to support selected dogs and cats in its care, including those staying at its centre and in foster homes. The supplement is designed to help pets stay calm during firework season, while also supporting their gut health.

The support began in early October, giving the animals time to prepare ahead of a period that can be particularly challenging for pets.

Loud bangs and flashes are no longer limited to one night, with celebrations including Halloween, Bonfire Night, Diwali and New Year’s Eve bringing fireworks across the autumn and winter months.

For some pets, the loud and unpredictable noises can cause distress. Common signs can include hiding away or avoiding interaction, while some may become restless or vocal, lose their appetite or display destructive behaviours.

While many owners take practical steps to help, such as putting on relaxing music, closing curtains and creating safe spaces for pets to hide, it’s important to remember to prepare well in advance, especially if they are particularly stressed by loud noises.

Owners of anxious pets can also consider Protexin SereniCare®, which has been developed using a growing scientific understanding of the gut-brain-microbiome axis. Gut health doesn’t just affect digestion – it can also play a role in how pets feel and behave.

The gut and brain are closely connected, meaning stress can affect digestion, while changes in the gut may also influence mood and behaviour. Supporting a healthy gut can therefore be an important part of looking after a pet’s overall wellbeing.

Suitable for both dogs and cats, SereniCare combines four scientifically selected ingredients to support emotional balance and normal behaviour: PRIOME® MW postbiotics, Fibersol® prebiotic, alpha-casozepine, a naturally derived milk protein, and L-tryptophan, an essential amino acid involved in the production of serotonin.

Dr Ronan Fitzgerald BVetMed MRCVS, Senior Veterinary Technical Advisor at Protexin, said: “Seeing pets in distress can be difficult for owners, who find it hard to know what’s best for their pets, but one of the most important factors to take into consideration is timing, ensuring that all support is introduced to your pet ahead of the season taking place.

“Protexin SereniCare has been formulated to support pets before and during predictable stressful situations, and because it mixes easily into food, it offers owners a simple and convenient way to support their dog or cat when they need it most. However, for best results it should be introduced at least two weeks before a predictable stressful event and given daily.”

Linda Cantle, Director of Pet Services said: "Fireworks can be incredibly frightening. For pets in our care, particularly those who are already adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings and routines, it is especially important that we do everything we can to help them feel safe.

"Every pet responds differently to fireworks, so our teams take the time to understand each individual's needs, recognise signs of stress and respond in the best way for that pet. We are grateful to Protexin for helping us to provide an additional layer of support to our resident cats and dogs this firework season.

"We are also eager to encourage owners to plan ahead for fireworks. Whether that's speaking to your vet, identifying any behavioural or health triggers, or preparing safe hideaways, don't wait for the bangs to begin before finding a way to support your pet."

For more information, visit www.protexin.com or speak to your local vet.