As Bonfire Night approaches, many of us are eagerly anticipating the dazzling displays of fireworks that light up the sky. However, while we may enjoy the colourful explosions, for our beloved pets, the loud noises and bright lights can be overwhelming and frightening. As responsible pet owners, it's important to take precautions to keep our furry friends safe during this time. In this blog post, we'll discuss some tips and advice on how to ensure your pet's safety and wellbeing on Bonfire Night. So, let's take a moment to pause for thought and consider how we can best protect our pets during the fireworks festivities.

How to help my pet on bonfire night?

• Close windows and curtains to muffle the sounds of fireworks
• Blackout curtains or your pet's safe area from bright flashes
• Mask the sound with music or the TV
• Try not to react to any fireworks

How do I keep my dog calm on bonfire night?

Give your pet space, distract and reassure them to quell any anxiety while keeping curtains and windows closed.

Can I leave my dog alone on bonfire night?

No, no matter how calm they may be if you suspect fireworks nearby anything could happen to cause even the calmest of dogs a sudden anxiety attack or worst case scenario panic attack leading to sudden heart failure. Sometimes your neighbours may decide to have a very loud firework this year that can unexpectedly cause windows to rattle or strobing flashes that can panic any animal. Try to find a local pet sitter or family member to be with them just in case.

Should I let my cat out on bonfire night?

No, cats move fast and can panic quickly running into danger. A cat curfew is advised to ensure they can be watched and cared for. In the wild even your calmest cat could end up stuck in a tree or lost in the woods, or worse into traffic due to sudden fear of fireworks.

What should I do with my rabbits on fireworks night?

Keep your small animals under close watch. Rabbits, guinea pigs even chickens can experience sudden death from freight during unexpected events. Anything from a loud car to lightning can panic their tiny hearts to the point of no return resulting in organ failure within 24 hours. 

• Cover outdoor cages to protect them from bright flashes and failing debris
• Move cages indoors 
• Move your rabbits or small animals inside with you and keep them distracted with food and toys
• Bond with them with a special treat 

 What can calm my cat?

Lavender is great for calming all pets with natural sedative properties. You can also try copaiba, helichrysum and frankincense which are considered safe for cats.

What colours calm pets?

Purple is considered calming and can help cats sleep better.

Bonfire Night is a highly anticipated event for many of us, with its stunning displays of fireworks lighting up the night sky. But for our beloved pets, it can be a terrifying experience. The loud noises and bright lights can cause immense fear and anxiety, leaving our furry friends feeling stressed and vulnerable. It is important to understand the fears that our pets may have during this time and take proactive steps to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

Dogs and cats, as well as other animals, have heightened senses compared to humans. They can hear sounds at frequencies that are much higher than what we can perceive. Fireworks, with their deafening booms and high-pitched whistles, can be extremely distressing for them. The sudden loud noises can startle them and trigger their fight or flight response. They may become scared, anxious, and may even try to run away in an attempt to find safety.

It is important to recognise the signs of fear and anxiety in our pets. Dogs may exhibit behaviours such as trembling, panting, pacing, hiding, or seeking constant reassurance from their owners. Cats, on the other hand, may hide, cower, or become overly aggressive. It is essential to be attentive to these signs and respond accordingly.

Understanding your pet's fears about Bonfire Night will allow you to take proactive steps to keep them calm and secure. This may involve creating a safe and quiet space in your home where they can retreat to, providing them with a comforting environment. It is also helpful to close the curtains, play calming music or white noise, and provide them with familiar scents, such as their favourite blanket or toy.

By understanding the fears that our pets may have during Bonfire Night and taking proactive steps to keep them calm and secure, we can ensure that they are safe and protected during this festive period. In the following sections, we will discuss in more detail the proactive steps you can take, how to prepare your home, extra care measures to consider, and immediate actions to take if your pet becomes distressed or lost. So let's continue on this pet safety guide for Bonfire Night to ensure our furry friends can have a peaceful and stress-free experience.

Ensure your pet is properly identified. In case they do manage to escape during the festivities, make sure they are wearing a collar with up-to-date identification tags. It's also a good idea to have your pet microchipped, as this provides a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or removed.

During Bonfire Night, it's important to stay calm and relaxed around your pet. Animals can pick up on our emotions, so remaining calm can help to reassure them that everything is okay. If you notice that your pet is becoming stressed or anxious, try to distract them with toys or treats, or engage them in activities that they enjoy.

By taking these proactive steps, you can help to ensure that your pet feels safe and secure during the fireworks festivities. Remember, our furry friends rely on us to keep them safe, so it's important to be organised in protecting them from the fears and anxieties that Bonfire Night can bring.

Bonfire Night can be a thrilling and mesmerising event for us humans, but for our furry friends, it can be a scary and anxiety-inducing experience. To ensure your pet's safety and wellbeing during Fireworks Night, it's crucial to prepare your home and create a calm and secure environment for them.

Firstly, start by identifying a safe and comfortable space for your pet to retreat to during the festivities. This could be a quiet room or a corner of the house where they feel secure. Make sure this space is free from any potential hazards, such as open windows or wires that could be chewed. Providing them with their own den-like area, such as a crate or a cosy bed, can also help them feel more secure.

Next, take steps to minimise the impact of the loud noises from fireworks. Closing the curtains or blinds can help block out the bright lights that can startle animals. Additionally, playing soothing music or turning on the television at a moderate volume can help drown out the loud bangs. These familiar sounds can create a sense of normalcy for your pet and distract them from the outside noises.

Consider using products that emit calming pheromones, such as diffusers or sprays. These products can help create a sense of calm and relaxation for your pet. You can also consult with your vet about potential natural remedies or medications to help alleviate anxiety during this time.

In addition to creating a safe space and minimising the impact of loud noises, make sure your home is secure to prevent any potential escapes. Ensure all doors, windows, and gates are properly closed and locked.

Lastly, consider the impact of fireworks on wildlife. Keep in mind that wildlife may also become stressed or scared by the loud noises and bright lights. Avoid setting off fireworks in areas where there may be wildlife nearby, such as fields or wooded areas. This small consideration can help protect not only your pet but also the local wildlife.

By following these steps and taking the time to prepare your home for the big bang night, you can help ensure that your pet feels safe and secure during the fireworks festivities. Remember, your furry friend relies on you to keep them safe, so take the necessary precautions to make this experience as stress-free as possible for them.

While taking proactive steps to keep your pet calm and secure during Bonfire Night is important, there are also some extra care measures that you should keep in mind. These do's and don'ts will help ensure your pet's safety and well-being during this festive time.

1. Do keep your pet indoors: It's best to keep your pet indoors during the fireworks festivities. This will help protect them from any potential dangers and reduce their exposure to loud noises and bright lights.
2. Do provide plenty of exercise: Before the fireworks begin, make sure your pet has had plenty of exercise. A tired pet is more likely to be calmer and less anxious during the festivities.
3. Do provide distractions: Keep your pet entertained and distracted during the fireworks. Play their favourite game, give them puzzle toys, or engage in activities that they enjoy. This will help take their mind off the loud noises and keep them occupied.
4. Do stay with your pet: Your presence can be comforting to your pet during this stressful time. Stay with them, provide reassurance, and offer a calming touch. Your presence will help them feel safe and secure.

1. Don't punish your pet: It's important not to punish your pet if they display signs of fear or anxiety during Bonfire Night. Punishment can only worsen their stress and make the situation more distressing for them. Instead, provide comfort and reassurance.
2. Don't leave your pet alone: Avoid leaving your pet alone during the fireworks festivities. They may become scared or anxious and could potentially harm themselves or damage property in an attempt to escape.
3. Don't force your pet to confront their fears: Forcing your pet to face their fears can make their anxiety worse. Allow them to retreat to their safe space and respect their need for comfort and security.
4. Don't forget to secure your home: Ensure that all doors, windows, and gates are properly closed and locked to prevent any potential escapes. Take extra care to secure any potential escape routes and create a safe environment for your pet.

By following these extra care measures, you can help ensure that your pet has a safe and stress-free experience during Bonfire Night. Remember, our furry friends rely on us for their safety and well-being, so let's make this festive time enjoyable for them as well.

In the unfortunate event that your pet becomes distressed or goes missing on Bonfire Night, it's important to take immediate action to ensure their safety. Here are some steps you can take if you find yourself in this stressful situation.

First and foremost, try to remain calm. Your pet can sense your emotions, so it's crucial to stay composed and level-headed. Panicking will only make the situation more difficult to handle. Take a deep breath and focus on the task at hand.

If your pet becomes distressed during the fireworks, provide them with a safe and quiet space where they can retreat to. This could be a room in your home or their favourite hiding spot. Ensure that the space is secure and free from any potential hazards. Close the doors and windows to minimise the noise and light from the fireworks.

Offer comfort and reassurance to your pet. Sit with them, stroke them gently, and speak in a soothing voice. Your presence can provide a sense of security during this frightening time.

If your pet manages to escape during the festivities, act quickly. Check your immediate surroundings and call out for them. Use familiar sounds or their favourite toys to try and lure them back. It's important to stay in the vicinity of your home as your pet may return on their own.

Notify your neighbours and ask for their assistance in keeping an eye out for your pet. Provide them with a recent photo and any distinguishing features that can help with identification. Distribute posters or flyers in your local area, including veterinary clinics and animal shelters.

Contact your local animal control or rescue organisations to report your pet as missing. They may have received information about found pets or have protocols in place for missing animals during events like Guy Fawkes Night.

Utilise social media to spread the word about your missing pet. Post a description and photo on community Facebook groups and ask others to share the information. This can greatly increase your chances of being reunited with your furry friend.

Remember to keep your pet's microchip information and identification tags up to date. If someone finds your pet, having proper identification can greatly facilitate their safe return.

By following these immediate actions, you can increase the chances of finding your pet if they become distressed or go missing on Bonfire Night. Remember, time is of the essence, so act quickly and seek assistance from your local community. Together, we can help keep our pets safe during this exciting but potentially stressful time.