As we enter the season of fireworks displays, it's crucial to remember that the loud bangs and bright flashes can be extremely unsettling for our pets and other animals. Fireworks can create a high-stress environment for animals, leading to fear, anxiety, and even physical health issues.
Here are some tried-and-tested tips that the Countryside Alliance recommends to help create a calming and secure space at home during Bonfire Night and the surrounding days.
Introduce your pet to low-level sounds that mimic fireworks in the days leading up to Bonfire Night. This gradual exposure can help reduce the shock of sudden loud noises, making them feel less startled when the real fireworks begin. This can also be a useful longer-term solution.
Ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise earlier in the day to avoid walking during firework displays. This reduces exposure to loud noises and gives them a chance to release pent-up energy, which can help them stay calmer indoors later on.
On Bonfire Night, distract and comfort your pet with treats, engaging them with toys and even practicing simple tricks they know. Incorporating gentle touch, like petting, can have a calming effect.
If you know that fireworks are planned in your area, try not to leave your pets alone. Being at home with them can be reassuring, especially for pets prone to anxiety.
Setting up a quiet space can help pets feel more secure. Turn on the TV or play music to create a buffer against outdoor noise. Classic FM often schedule a pet-friendly programme for this exact occasion.
Remember to keep your home as soundproof as possible by closing windows, curtains, and blinds; this reduces both the noise and the flashes of light from fireworks.
Fireworks can also distress farm animals and horses, so it’s worth alerting neighbours if you plan a display. Horse owners should check that animals are securely stabled and that fields are free from potential hazards should they startle. If you live in the countryside, be mindful of wildlife habitats and avoid setting off fireworks near fields, woodlands, or nesting areas.
It is important to note that your pets should be microchipped and that their microchip details should be up to date. In the worst-case scenario, if your pet gets out or runs away whilst fireworks are going off, you can be reunited more easily thanks to the microchip.
By following these tips, you can help ease the stress Bonfire Night can bring to pets, livestock, and wildlife alike. Ensuring the safety and well-being of all animals during this time will make a world of difference for everyone who shares our countryside.