Most animals such as dogs and cats can have very sensitive hearing
which can lead them to become scared during firework season.
As a company of animal’s lovers, we always advise our customers on
the simple things such as informing your neighbours about letting
fireworks off so they can have time to prepare and protect their pets.

SMALL PETS
Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, mice, ferrets and birds all
need to be treated with special care when fireworks are being let off.
These animals can be easily frightened. It is recommended to follow
these guidelines below:
• Hutches/cages and enclosures should, if possible, be brought
into a quiet room indoors, or into a garage or shed.
• Give your pet extra bedding to burrow into so it feels safe.
• If you cannot bring your pet’s hutch inside, you should turn its
enclosure around so that it faces a wall or fence instead of the
open garden.
• Cover any aviaries or hutches with thick blankets or a duvet to
block out the sight of the fireworks and deaden the sound of the
bangs, but make sure there is enough ventilation.

CATS & DOGS
• Always keep dogs and cats inside when fireworks are being let
off
• Make sure your dog is walked earlier in the day before the
fireworks start
• Close all windows and doors, and block off cat flaps to stop pets
escaping and to keep noise to a minimum. Draw the curtains,
and if the animals are used to the sounds of TV or radio, switch
them on (but not too loudly) to block out some of the noise of
the fireworks.
• Ensure dogs are wearing some form of easily readable
identification (ID) – even in the house. They should have at least
a collar and tag.
• Think about fitting pets with a microchip, so that if they do run
away, they have a better chance of being quickly reunited with
you
• Prepare a ‘den’ for your pet where it can feel safe and
comfortable – perhaps under a bed with some of your old
clothes. They may like to hide there when the fireworks start.
• Let your pet pace around, whine, Miaow and hide in a corner if
they want to. Do not try to coax them out – it’s just trying to
find safety and should not be disturbed.
• Stay calm, act normally and give lots of praise for calm
behaviour. It’s OK to cuddle and stroke your pet if it helps them
relax, but if they prefer to hide under your bed, then let them do
this instead.
• Avoid leaving your pet alone when fireworks being let off. If
you do have to leave the house, don’t get angry with your pet if
you find they have been destructive or toileted after being left
on its own. Shouting at a frightened pet will only make them
more stressed.
• Don’t tie your dog up outside while fireworks are being let off,
i.e. outside a shop while you pop inside, or leave them in the
garden or in your car.
• Do not take your dog to a fireworks display. Even if they don’t
bark or whimper at the noise, it doesn’t mean they are happy.
Excessive panting and yawning can indicate that your dog is
stressed.

HORSES, PONIES OR LIVESTOCK
• Fireworks are recommended to not be set off near livestock or
horses in fields, or close to buildings housing livestock. If you
are planning a firework display in a rural area, you should warn
the neighbouring farmers in advance.
If you own a horse the following guidelines may be helpful.
• Keep your horse in a familiar environment, in their normal
routine with any companions to make them feel secure. If your
horse is usually stabled, then keep them stabled. If they are
normally out in the field, keep them there if it is safe, secure and
not near the fireworks display area.
• Ensure that you or someone experienced stays with your horse if
you know fireworks are being set off. This way you can observe
their behaviour, ensure they remains as safe and calm as
possible and respond to its reactions appropriately.
• If you know your horse reacts badly to loud noises speak to your
vet or perhaps consider moving your horse for the night
• Try to remain calm and positive as horses can sense unease in a
person and this might make things worse if the horse is startled
• Be careful yourself. Try not to get in the way if your horse
becomes startled as you may get hurt.
• Don’t take the risk of riding when you think fireworks might be
set off
• If it is necessary for you to leave your horse in the care of
another person during fireworks show, leave clear instructions
and contact details for yourself and your vet should any
problems arise
Think ahead
• If you think your pet will struggle to cope with the fireworks
season, speak to your vet 6 to 12 weeks beforehand. If you want
behavioural advice, it’s best to investigate it 3 to 6 months in
advance.
• Occasionally we are often not forewarned about private
fireworks displays. Be prepared for the lead up to the 5
November and New Year’s Eve and be proactive about finding
out when other celebratory occasions might occur.