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Bonfire Night can be a fun celebration for us, but for our pets, it’s often a very different story. The loud bangs, bright lights, and unfamiliar smells can be incredibly stressful for animals. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to help keep your pets calm, safe, and as relaxed as possible during the festivities.
Here’s how to prepare your pet for fireworks and help them feel secure on Bonfire Night.
1. Close Windows and Curtains
One of the easiest ways to reduce your pet’s anxiety is to block out as much noise and flashing lights as possible. Closing all windows and drawing the curtains helps muffle the sound of fireworks and prevents sudden flashes from startling your pet. It also creates a more secure, cosy indoor environment for them to retreat to.
2. Use Soft Lighting for a Calming Atmosphere
Dim lighting or soft lamps can help create a calming space for your pet. A quiet, cosy corner with low lighting can feel like a safe haven, especially for cats and smaller pets. Avoid turning off all lights completely, as a dark room combined with loud noises might heighten their anxiety.
3. Use TV or Music to Mask Firework Noise
Playing calming music or leaving the TV on can help mask the sound of fireworks and create a more relaxed environment for your pet. We’ve even created our very own Spotify playlist especially designed to help soothe anxious animals. You can save the playlist, so you have it handy to play for your pet to drown out the loud firework sounds.
Our soothing soundtrack for firework season
4. Walk Dogs Before It Gets Dark
If you’re a dog owner, try to walk your dog earlier in the day before the fireworks start. Not only does this avoid the stress of sudden bangs during their walk, but it also helps burn off energy, making it easier for them to settle later on.
5. Use Toys and Games as Distractions
Keep your pet’s mind occupied with toys, puzzles, or interactive games. For dogs, a favourite chew or treat-dispensing toy can be a great distraction. For cats, playtime with feather wands or laser pointers can help redirect their focus away from outside noises.
6. Create a Safe Hiding Place
Many pets will naturally seek out a hiding spot when they feel anxious. You can help by setting up a designated safe space ahead of time. This could be a crate covered with a blanket, a quiet room with their bed and toys, or even a wardrobe or under-bed space for cats. Let your pet decide where they feel safest and where they can stay calm.
7. Keep Pets Indoors and Stay Close
Above all, make sure your pets are securely inside before fireworks begin. Check that doors, windows, and pet flaps are closed, and keep them away from open exits. If possible, stay close to offer reassurance, your presence alone can be hugely comforting.
It is important that, especially coming into the Autumn months with darker mornings and evenings, that your pet’s microchip is up to date. The chip provides a permanent form of identification that significantly increases the chances of reuniting lost pets with their owners. Unlike collars or tags, which can fall off or be removed, a microchip is embedded under the skin and can be scanned by vet clinics to quickly retrieve the owner’s contact information. Ensuring your pet is microchipped and that the information is up to date, offers peace of mind and in the worst-case scenario, if your pet runs off being startled by the loud noises of fireworks displays, this greatly improves the likelihood of a safe return.