Fireworks and Fear: Petrified Pets

24 October, 2024 – Doggy Dawdles admin

In the lead up to fireworks season – are you prepared?

Fireworks seem to now occur regularly throughout October-December with Halloween, Bonfire night, Christmas and New year.

Although spectacular to watch they have very real implications for the welfare of our wildlife, livestock and pet animals.

Here is some advice this firework season.

Cats

Check microchip details are up to date

Try and keep them inside after dark. We understand this can be difficult. You may need to provide more play and calming aids to help them with a change in routine

Close all doors and windows to prevent them bolting

Shut curtains to dim the noise and flashes

Give them a safe hiding place or don’t disturb them if they find their own safe place to settle. Cats often like to be up high

Dogs

Check microchip details are up to date

Walk before dark. If toileting outside go out with them on a leash to avoid them bolting if a firework goes off unexpectedly

Use calming aids

Give them as safe place to stay that is covered, dark and quiet. Do not lock them in here.

Watch that all doors are closed to avoid escape

You can comfort your pet, just ensure you stay safe if they are extremely agitated

Small Furries

You may need to bring any animals inside if it doesn’t cause them too much stress

They may require more bedding

Cover accommodation to prevent the lights from upsetting them

Move indoor enclosures away from windows to dull the noise and light

Horses

Check local fire displays and prepare

Keep to a routine

Check the field or Stable is free from hazards

Give your vet notice if you require medication for your horses anxiety

Check on them regularly or stay with them if they are known to spook so you can react quickly if they become upset

Wildlife

Check bonfires before lighting for any wildlife such as rodents or hedgehogs

Avoid setting fireworks off near known wildlife areas like nature reserves

How your vet can help

If your animals experiences distress then there are medications we can prescribe

You will likely need a prescription check even if you have it yearly

Veterinary professionals are also well placed to give you individual advice on how to help your pets

If you plan to have a firework display:

Please tell all your neighbours in advance that you plan it.

This will ensure they have had time to adequately prepare their animals for the event.

If possible please consider using alternative options such as silent or low noise fireworks if you know you are surrounded by families with cats, dogs, other pets or if you live by a farm or livery yard.

Please tell owners how long the display will go on for and don’t go beyond that so they know when it is safe to let their pets out for toileting or grazing.

Please do not release sky lanterns

https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/litter/skylanterns

Please also be fire safe!