Below are a few simple ways to help comfort your pets and keep them calm over the bonfire night period. Every pet is different and will react in different ways but hopefully there are some useful tips!
Dogs:
- Take your dog for a walk during the day, well before sunset and fireworks are due to begin.
- Keep doors and windows closed and draw curtains where possible.
- Play music, put the radio or TV on – anything to mask the sound and also distract your pets.
- If your dog is seeking reassurance, comfort them and cuddle as you would normally.
- Stay calm and try to keep your behaviour as normal as possible. Limit your reactions to the noises too.
- Make sure your dog is microchipped! If they do run away because of the fear, there is a much higher chance you will be reunited.
Cats:
- Don’t pick up or restrain your cats if they are scared. Cats prefer to cope using their own methods and be in control.
- If they come to you, reassure and comfort as normal but do not overcrowd.
- If they go and hide – leave them to alone as this is their coping mechanism. You can go check on them and offer reassurance if they allow but don’t try to move them.
- Stay calm and try to keep your behaviour as normal as possible. Limit your reactions to the noises too.
- Make sure your cat is microchipped! If they do run away because of the fear, there is a much higher chance you will be reunited.
Smaller pets/outdoor pets:
- Partly cover hutches and cages with blankets or towels – this will limit visibility of flashing lights and dull the loud noises.
- If possible, move hutches and cages into sheds or car-free garages a few nights before.
- Make sure there is plenty of bedding for hiding!
- Keep bonfires away from any pets.
- Check under your bonfires for hedgehogs! Build them as late as possible and ensure you check underneath before lighting.
