This week three animal welfare charities, Bath Cats and Dogs Home, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre and Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home, unite to call on local people in the Bath and North-East Somerset, Bristol, West Wiltshire and Gloucestershire area to plan ahead for pet welfare this Bonfire Night. 80% of dog owners notice significant changes in their dog’s behaviour during firework season according to research by The Kennel Club and 64% of cats show at least one stress response to fireworks according to Cats Protection’s 2023 research. On average the RSPCA receives around 400 calls a year relating to fireworks in England and Wales.
The charities advise that pet owners can help keep pets safe and well this firework season by getting prepared. Find out when the nearest firework displays are happening, make a safe space or den for your pet in their favourite place, prepare treats, games and toys ready to distract pets during louder evenings. Make sure your pet can’t escape outside if they are spooked by loud bangs and for both cats and dogs, set up a pheromone diffuser near their bed or den to help them stay calm. If you know your pet is stressed by fireworks, visit your vet before Bonfire Night to seek advice on medication.
On Bonfire Night keep cats indoors, provide a litter tray and some safe areas to hide. Walk dogs early before the fireworks begin and go with them into the garden if they need to go outside. If possible, make sure your pet isn’t left alone and play relaxing music to distract pets from loud fireworks, such as, Classic FM’s Pet Classics show in partnership with the RSPCA. Try playing a game with your pet to keep them busy or distract them with a treat. Don’t tempt your cat or dog out of a hiding spot, let them stay inside until they’re ready to leave.
During the fireworks be on the lookout for signs of stress in your pets such as shivering and trembling, excessive barking, hiding, clinginess, pacing, crying or excessive panting. Staying close and offering your pet reassurance during Bonfire Night will help to reduce their anxiety.
Haley Medlock, Fundraising Manager at Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home said: ‘As pet owners, we all want our animals to feel safe and secure, especially during stressful times like Bonfire Night. During fireworks season we support the animals in our care by providing quiet spaces, using calming diffusers, and playing soothing music to reduce anxiety. We encourage pet owners to do the same by preparing in advance to keep pets as comfortable as possible.’
Julie Stone, Head of Animal Operations at Bath Cats and Dogs Home said: “Don’t get caught out this Bonfire Night, plan ahead to help your pets feel calm and safe before the fireworks start. Always give your pets somewhere quiet to retreat to if they feel nervous about loud fireworks. Making a den or safe space like a covered crate with a familiar scent, such as a piece of your clothing, can help. We recommend closing all doors, windows and curtains, creating a calm environment with some music, and keeping your routine as normal as possible.”
Bristol Animal Rescue Centre’s Animal Home Manager, Jodie Hayward, added: “Each animal’s response to fireworks is different, but some pets might tremble, shut down, or freeze. Some might panic, causing physical injury to themselves or others around them, or damage furniture. They may try to escape or run away. It can be distressing for pet owners to see, especially if you’re unprepared.”
Ensure they’ve had plenty of exercise earlier in the day, which can help reduce anxiety. Create a safe, quiet space in your home, preferably away from windows, where they can feel secure. Set up this area with their favorite blankets, toys, or an item of clothing with your scent to provide comfort.
Yes, you can comfort them, but try to remain calm and don’t overreact to their fear. Speaking to them in a soothing voice and gentle petting can help.
Yes, consider products like anxiety wraps, ear protector snoods, pet-safe pheromones such as Pet Remedy. Consult your vet for advice on natural remedies or anxiety-relieving medication if your pet has severe reactions to loud noises.
Playing soft, calming music, white noise, or leaving the TV on can help drown out the sound of fireworks.
Some pets may still experience fear despite your efforts. Ensure they’re microchipped in case they escape. If their anxiety is extreme, consult your vet for further advice, including medication or behavioral therapy options.
It’s a good idea to keep them indoors for a few nights surrounding Bonfire Night, as fireworks are often set off in the days before and after the main event.
Double-check all windows, doors, and pet enclosures to ensure they’re secure. Always keep your pet’s ID tags and microchip information up-to-date. Make sure any pet-sitters or family members are also aware of the plan to keep your pets safe during fireworks.
We’ve put together an Amazon Wishlist filled with comforting items to help calm their nerves and make those noisy nights a bit more bearable, this can be found by clicking the button below.
Here are some things to help keep CDCH animals calm during fireworks, you can help the animals in our care this Bonfire Night by getting something from this list.
To report cruelty or an animal in distress call 0300 1234 999
RSPCA Cotswolds, Gloucester & District Branch
