How to Keep Your Animals Safe and Stress Free During This year's Fireworks

27th October 2012

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FIREWORKS AND ANIMALS

Every year thousands of animals suffer as a result of fireworks being let off. People often don’t realise the seriousness of it and only concerned about having a good time.

DOGS AND CATS

Always keep dogs and cats inside when fireworks are being let off
Make sure your dog is walked early in the day before the fireworks start
Close all windows and doors and block off cat flaps to stop pets escaping.
Draw the curtains and if the animals are used to the sound of the TV and radio, switch them on as well.
Let your pet pace around, whine, meow and hide in a corner if it wants to (do not try to coax it out, it’s trying to find safety and should not be disturbed.

SMALL ANIMALS

Hutches/cages and enclosures should be brought into a quiet room indoors or into a garage /shed.
Give your pet extra bedding to burrow into so it feels safe
Cover any aviaries or hutches with thick blankets or a duvet to block out the sight of fireworks and deaden the sound. Make sure there’s enough ventilation.

HORSES AND PONIES

Fireworks must never be set off near livestock or horses in fields.
Anyone planning a firework display in a rural area should warn neighbouring farmers in advance.
Try to make sure that the fireworks are never set off near your horse’s field or stable. Tell neighbours and local firework display organisers there are horses nearby.
Keep your horse in its familiar environment, in its normal routine with any companions to make it feel secure.
If you know your horse reacts badly to loud noises speak to your vet or perhaps consider moving your horse for the night.
Try to remain calm and positive, as horses can sense unease and fear in a person.
Be careful yourself. Try not to get in the way if your horse spooks because you may get hurt.

Thanks to Livvy Ryalls and Charlotte Walker of Heanor Gate Science College for this blog

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