It's the beginning of November which can only mean one thing...the next few nights will be filled with fireworks as the celebrations for Diwali and Bonfire Night commence. As we know, this time of year can be an especially worrying and stressful time for our horses, livestock and pets. Read on for our tips on how you can help your animals to stay calm and safe during the fireworks celebrations.
Firework Safety For Horses And Ponies
Horses are flight animals are are naturally designed to flee at speed from danger. This instinct to run isn’t only a danger to themselves but also to their owners handling them and even the public, if they were break through fencing and into public areas or roadways.
Stress brought on by fright can also lead to colic. Sadly, every year there are cases of horses having to be humanely PTS due to injury or sickness brought about by firework displays. However, there are things that owners can do to help to keep their horses the least stressed and as safe as possible.
- Check your local area for publicised events and plan accordingly.
- Alert neighbours: Informing neighbours of your horse’s presence can encourage them to set off fireworks farther away, reducing noise and visual stress.
- Ideally make sure horses are stabled and are brought in before dark.
- Covering windows: If your horse is stabled, consider covering stable windows to block out the light flashes from fireworks, which can also reduce anxiety
- A radio near the stable can cover some of the noise of fireworks.
- Ensure there is plenty of hay available to help keep horses occupied or a treat ball.
- Keep horses with their social groups or if they are unable to see their friends, a stable mirror may be useful.
- Maintain a calm demeanour: Horses are sensitive to the emotions of their handlers, so it's important to stay calm to prevent additional stress.
- If you cannot stable your horse, ensure the paddock is free from hazards to help reduce the risk of accidents if the horses do spook and gallop.
- Ensure there is a fire extinguisher close at hand in case of stray fireworks landing on the property.
- If possible, monitor your horse through the evening and keep your vet’s number to hand in case of emergency.
- After a firework display, check the stable yard and paddocks for debris from fireworks that may present a hazard.
Tips For Dog And Cat Owners
Firework night can be a hugely stressful time for our domestic pets. Veterinary centres see an increase in medication required during this season to help our pets cope through this anxious time.
Our pet's hearing is much more advanced than our own and the sound of fireworks can cause them physical discomfort. The flashes of light and loud bangs can cause some pets to bolt, with many pets each year becoming lost and disorientated.
- Cats should be kept indoors overnight and provided with a quiet place that they can hide to feel safe and secure.
- Ensure cat flaps, windows and doors are closed to avoid escape.
- Ensure your cat’s or dog’s microchip details are up to date and his or her collar carries your contact information, just in case they do escape or run from home. This will increase the chances of them being reunited with you.
- Walk dogs earlier in the day to avoid walking in darkness. If you are caught out in the dark, ensure your dog is kept on a lead to prevent him from bolting.
- Draw curtains and put the TV or radio on to help block out some of the external noises. Classic FM play a dedicated playlist specially to help pets keep calm during firework season. We’ve heard it's very effective too!
- Gradually increase indoor noise levels: To help pets acclimatise, turn on a TV or radio earlier in the day and gradually raise the volume. Be mindful that it's not too loud, so as not to upset them.
- It can help to not to interfere and give your pet space, even if they are pacing, meowing or whining.
- Create a safe hiding place: Or 'pet haven' such as a crate with their favourite bed and toy inside and cover it with a blanket to block out the light flashes. Reward calm behaviour, or cuddle and stroke them only if it helps them to relax.
- Avoid leaving your pet alone in the house when fireworks are going off. Your presence, even if you don’t interact with them, helps to reassure them.
- If your pet is known to become very stressed by fireworks, ask your vet about medication or hormone sprays/plug-ins to help minimise their anxiety.
Tips For Small Pets
- Small pets such as rabbits, ferrets and guinea pigs should be checked regularly and ensure that the doors of their enclosure doors are bolted and shut tight.
- If possible, bring small animal indoors so that you can keep a close eye on them and block out some of the noise and flashing lights.
- If the enclosure cannot be moved inside, try turning the hutch around to face a wall can help to reduce the flashes of light. Relocating them to quieter areas such as garages or sheds can also be useful.
- Use a thick cover to shut out the light and deaden the sound to help reduce stress. Carpet is a good option but ensure there is enough ventilation.
- Place extra bedding material in the housing so they can bury into it to feel secure.
3 Key Tips for Keeping Pets Safe During Fireworks
Create Safe, Quiet Spaces: Prepare a comfortable hiding place for pets, such as a crate or covered hutch, and use sound-dampening measures like closing curtains and playing background noise.
Walk Dogs Early & Keep Pets Indoors: Walk dogs before dark and ensure cats and small animals are inside before fireworks start. Closing all windows and doors is essential to prevent escapes.
Maintain Calm Energy for Horses: Ensure horses are in safe areas like stables, inform neighbours, and keep calm while around them to minimise their stress.
If your pet or horse is particularly anxious during fireworks, consult your vet for advice on calming strategies, including the use of medication or calming products to help them cope and keep them comfortable.
