Be prepared and keep your pets safe!

We humans associate fireworks with celebration.  But for many of our pets, events like Bonfire Night, New Year, etc. are some of the most terrifying and miserable times of the year.  Sometimes these celebrations come with tragic consequences.

Some safety tips to help keep your pet safe during fireworks:

 Dogs

• Walk them during daylight hours to avoid times when fireworks are likely to be set off
• Ensure external doors are closed/locked and internal doors are kept open
• Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound of fireworks
• Put on some music or tv to mask the firework sounds
• Create a quiet space where your dog can feel in control
• Create some hiding places around your home
  

Cats

• Provide hiding places in your home
• Cats can become more stressed if they’re outside during fireworks
• Microchip your cats in case they’re startled and escape outside
  

Small Animals

• Partly cover outside cages and pens with blankets so an area is soundproofed and hidden, but allow another area for the animals to look out
• Provide bedding small animals can burrow in
• Consider bringing them indoors – this will need to be done gradually so plan ahead
  

There are many products available to help with calming/anxiety, they vary from plug-in diffusers, sprays & collars.

Start planning now, don’t leave it until last minute as some products need time to work.

 
It’s not just pets that can be affected:

•  Livestock, as frightened animals (esp. horses) can injure themselves when scared.
•  Disturbing wildlife so steer clear of known habitats.
•  Check bonfires before lighting as animals like hedgehogs may be hibernating.

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Laws concerning fireworks

• It is illegal for anyone under 18 to possess a firework in a public place.
• Fireworks cannot be set off by a private individual between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. except for certain nights of the year.
• It is an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any captive or domestic animal.
• Unless retailers possess a special licence they may only sell fireworks from 15 October to 10 November and 26 to 31 December.
  

Think ahead

Seek veterinary help for your animal six to twelve weeks before the firework season begins.
We are often not forewarned about private fireworks displays so be prepared for 5th November
and New Year’s Eve.