Let bonfire night go off without a bang

Tweet According to vets, each year, hundreds of pets are harmed by fireworks on bonfire night each year, and many more run away in fear. It is a scary world out there for a petrified pooch, and combined with a dark, cold, November night being lost often results in getting in harm’s way, sometimes fatally.

However, with these 10 easy-to-follow steps you can ensure your feline is feelin’ fine this Guy Fawkes night. We have talked to numerous vets from all over the country, from inner-city bunny buffs, to rural equestrian experts, and here are our essential bonfire steps:

1. Bring your pets indoors and draw the curtains to keep them as safe as possible during Bonfire Night.

2. Don’t forget small pets such as rabbits or guinea pigs. They can become very stressed by loud noises. If they live outside, bring them indoors for the Bonfire period so they feel as safe and relaxed as possible.

3. If your pet has a favourite den, encourage them to stay there during the fireworks. The more comfortable and secure they feel, the less scared they will be. If they don’t have a favourite spot, try to create one in the days running up to Bonfire Night by coaxing your pet there with healthy treats, toys and blankets.

4. If your dog or cat hides during the fireworks you should try to leave it alone. They have clearly found a space that works for them and want to be left in peace. Fussing over them can cause more stress.

5. Play music or turn up the television to drown out noise from fireworks. Your pet’s ears are generally two to three times as sensitive as yours, so anything to disguise the noise contributes to their well being.

6. From most vets you can purchase a simple plug-in diffuser that disperses a dog/cat appeasing pheromone into the room. The pheromone reassures the animal and naturally calms it down. You should aim to plug in the diffuser a week before Bonfire Night, so the pheromone has time to build up to significant levels and ensures your pets are as relaxed as possible.

7. If there’s a chance your pet will run away, make sure it is wearing a collar and is micro chipped. You should try to secure your home as best you can so your pet cannot escape if it becomes particularly terrified.

8. Make sure you walk your dog during daylight hours, and try to tire your pet so it sleeps through the firework hours.

9. In rural areas, advise neighbours that you are planning a fireworks display so that they can make provision for their pets. Horses, in particular, have a tendency to bolt at loud noises, but are often the forgotten victims on Bonfire Night.

10. Even better, have a firework-free Guy Fawkes’ that both your pets and kids can enjoy! Have a fear-free bonfire where you can toast marshmallows; dress up a Guy to burn; wave around sparklers and go wild with the glitter. If you are having a bonfire though, be sure to check bonfires for hibernating animals such as hedgehogs and frogs before lighting.