Fireworks scare pets, it's never funny

Bonfire Night - How to Protect Your Pet

Bonfire Night can give your pets quite a scare. This annual event is frowned upon by many pet lovers, and is often the cause of anxiety and panic for local cats and dogs. Full of loud and often unsafe fireworks, Bonfire Night can be a dangerous scene for pets and people alike.

The increase in the amount of illegal fireworks purchased has led to a rise in the amount of accidents associated with this event. When fireworks go off early, or when distraught animals attack, the night can quickly become a nightmare. The RSPCA recently released a number of precautions that can be taken to protect your pets, and by following simple guidelines, you can help Bonfire Night be a safer experience for both people and pets.

Regardless of how much you want to, do not take your dog or cat with you to see the fireworks. Pets are scared of these displays, and regardless of what you might think, they will not enjoy the experience. If your dog or cat stays outside and can't be brought in, at least make sure that they have an area to hide, and that they are collared and micro chipped in case they run away.

Whenever possible bring your cats and dogs inside the home. Turn on some soothing music or the television to place your pet at ease. Let them hide if they are scared, and do not try to hold onto them if they want to get away. If they are severely frightened by the noise and lights, they could bite you if they feel threatened. If your dog is extremely excitable in nature, you can purchase a scent diffuser from a veterinarians' office, and it will give off a calming scent of a female dog to sooth your pet.

Elaine Fairfax, Founder and MD of Animal Friends Insurance, the ethical pet insurer commented: "Bonfire night is always a worrying time for pet owners. Even when kept safely indoors pets can be terrified of firework noise. But there are things you can do to help your companion. CD's are available which can safely desensitize pets to loud noises and there are homeopathic remedies such as Bach Rescue Remedy which some owners have found useful. But at least make sure your pet is made as comfortable as possible and distract him or her with games and a possibly a new toy. And if you're having a bonfire, don't forget to check it for hibernating hedgehogs too before you light it!"

Precautions for Other Animals

Small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds if outside, should be brought in and placed into a quiet area. Horses and livestock should be properly stabled during the Bonfire Night celebration, and fireworks should not be set off too close to them.

It is worth a moment to mention that hedgehogs and other small animals will often hide within the sticks and wood that makes up the bonfire piles. Try to search the pile, and scare out any small animals that might be living there before setting it on fire. Rustling the branches with a stick, and making loud noises should be enough to flush wild animals out.

Bonfire Night is a great time for many people. It is a time to celebrate and socialize, but if proper precautions are not taken, the night can be dangerous to both people and their pets. If you practice safety, and provide a reassuring environment for your pets, then Bonfire Night can be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.