Pet advice: Fireworks frighten animals

Many people enjoy fireworks, but many animals are frightened by them.

Seek veterinary advice for your pet before the firework season begins. Be prepared for 5 November and also New Year's Eve. There may also be other celebrations in your area that will feature fireworks.

Keep your pets safe

Animals have very acute hearing. Loud bangs and whistles may cause them actual pain in their ears. But by following these simple guidelines your pet does not need to suffer.

If your pet is frightened by loud noises, don't ignore the problem. Follow our tips on how to keep your pets safe when fireworks are being used.

Cats and dogs

• Never take your dog to a fireworks display.
• During the fireworks season, at nightfall, close all windows, cat flaps and curtains and put on some music to mask and muffle the fireworks sounds.
• Keep your dogs and cats inside before fireworks are let off.
• Make sure you walk your dog before the fireworks start.
• Let your pet pace around, whine, miaow and hide if that is what he/she wants to do.
• Never show anger to your dog or cat if he/she appears frightened - this will only convince your pet that there really is something to be afraid of!
• Do not fuss over or try to reassure your dog or cat when he/she is frightened.
• Make sure your dog or cat is kept in a safe and secure environment at all times, so that he/she can't bolt and escape in reaction to a sudden noise. 
• Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with an ID tag, even while in the house. Also if you have had your pet micro chipped you will certainly improve the chances of them returning safetly.
• Prepare a "den" for your pet where it can feel safe and comfortable. This could be under your bed with some of your clothes. Your pet may like to hide in the den before the fireworks start.
• Avoid leaving your pet alone during events when fireworks are being used near your home.
• Don't tie your dog up outside whilst fireworks are being let off. This includes outside a shop, or in your garden.

Other animals

• If possible, hutches and enclosures should be bought into a quiet room indoors or into a garage or shed. If it's not possible to bring the hutch inside, turn it around so that it faces a wall or fence.
• Provide extra bedding so that your pet can burrow to feel safe.
• Cover aviaries and hutches with blankets - this will help darken the flashes and lower the sound of the bangs from the fireworks. Ensure there is enough ventilation.