Photo: RSPCA.
The RSPCA is sharing expert, easy-to-follow advice to help pet owners keep their animals safe, calm and comfortable during fireworks season, which can be one of the most frightening times of the year for pets.
With a little forward planning, owners can help their animals cope with the noise and disruption caused by fireworks. Creating a calm home environment, including playing soothing music such as Classic FM’s Pet Classics, can help pets feel more secure throughout the celebrations.
Alice Potter, Pet Welfare Expert at the RSPCA, said:
“Many worried pet owners are already starting to think about upcoming fireworks and wondering how to keep their pets safe and limit stress. This can be the most frightening time of the year for animals.
“By taking a few simple actions early, pet owners can make a huge positive difference for their animals. Preparing in advance helps pets stay relaxed and gives owners complete peace of mind.”
The advice comes as public support for measures to protect animals from fireworks continues to grow. According to the RSPCA’s Animal Kindness Index, 81% of people across the UK support the introduction of Firework Control Zones, where fireworks would be restricted in certain areas to protect animals and vulnerable individuals.
In addition, 35% of adults say they have avoided private fireworks displays, while 15% of young people have skipped fireworks parties because of concerns about animal welfare.
A recent UK Government consultation on fireworks regulations received more than 51,000 responses submitted through the RSPCA’s online campaign. Many respondents called for tighter consumer firework noise limits and for the loudest fireworks to be restricted to organised professional displays.
Alice added:
“People want to make a difference.
“Strong support for Firework Control Zones, along with the growing number of people choosing organised displays over private fireworks, suggests there is a real desire to protect animals from the unpredictability of loud bangs and flashes.
“With tens of thousands of people responding to the Government consultation, we hope decision makers will act to protect animals and introduce the common-sense reforms the public clearly supports.”
Prepare Ahead of Fireworks Season:
Walk dogs during daylight hours to avoid unexpected evening displays.
Gradually introduce recorded firework sounds at a low volume so pets can become accustomed to the noise.
Create a safe space:
A cosy den with blankets for dogs.
Extra hiding places for cats.
Additional bedding for small pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs to burrow into.
Play calming background music, such as Classic FM’s Pet Classics, so pets become familiar with soothing sounds.Pet Classics
Speak to your vet about calming pheromone diffusers or, for animals with severe anxiety, other appropriate treatments.
For more information, visit the RSPCA’s dedicated fireworks advice pages.
When Fireworks are taking place:
Exercise early
Take dogs for walks before dark, when most fireworks displays begin.
Your presence can help reassure anxious pets.
Put on music, television or a calming playlist to help mask firework sounds.
Make a comfortable, enclosed space with blankets and bedding where pets can retreat and feel safe.
See if your pet wants to play with a favourite toy, but never force interaction.
Close windows, draw curtains and lower blinds to minimise flashes and sounds.
Ensure doors, gates and windows are secure to prevent frightened pets from escaping.
If they bark, pace, hide or whine, allow them to do so. Don’t force them out of their chosen safe spot.
Pets often take cues from their owners. Remaining calm can help reassure them.
Bring small animals inside where possible.
Keep cats indoors during fireworks displays.
Never leave a dog tied up outside.
Comfort your pets and help them feel safe.
Let them choose how much interaction they want.
Even dogs that appear unaffected can find fireworks stressful.
