Events that involve fireworks are a spectacular sight which most of us enjoy, unfortunately for many animals it can be a very distressing and stressful time.  For our companion pets, livestock, zoo animals and wildlife fireworks can be unexpected and unpredictable.  The loud bangs and bright flashes of light can be very scary and frightening.

Animals may be injured if they get too close to a lit firework or if the noise spooks them, they can run away, become disoriented and are then unable to find their way home, injuring themselves or even being involved in a traffic accident.

Here are a few ways to keep your animal safe and calm during firework celebrations

• Keep your pets indoors. Ensure you have walked your dog earlier to avoid getting caught out when it is dark. -  5th of November is Guy Fawkes night but be aware that there is no set date when people will use them, so it pays to always be vigilant.
• Plan ahead. Create a plan for your pets to keep them calm and safe
• Make your home extra comfortable by creating a quiet calming space.  Provide places that your pet can hide. Close the curtains so they can’t see the flashes. Turn on the TV so the sound can muffle the loud bangs.
• Keep farm animals and horses in their familiar paddocks with their usual companions unless fireworks are going to be set off close by - then it would be advisable to move them in advance. Check that fences are secure and that there is nothing around protruding or anything else that may cause injury.
• Enrichment – Keep your pets busy while fireworks are happening by giving them something to do – either a tasty treat that will take some time to devour, a box or toy they can play with or play fetch with your dog or a ball of string to amuse your cat.
• Support and comfort your pet – stay home with your pet if possible.
• Check on your animals – regular checks mean you can prevent an issue escalating and help your animal in time.
• Never let fireworks off near animals.
• Don’t forget about smaller animals such as chickens, aviary birds, rabbits and guinea pigs. Bring them inside if possible.
• Microchipping your pet can be vital in identifying your pet and reuniting them with you if your pet has run away due to fireworks.
• Have emergency contact numbers available on hand – Vet/SPCA etc
• If you plan to let fireworks off on your property, consider letting your neighbours know so they can prepare.
• Seek veterinary advice – if you plan in advance our staff can help you with any concerns you may have. There are medications that our vets can prescribe and offer advice on products that can provide a calming, reassuring environment by releasing pheromones via diffusers, sprays or collars for dogs, we even supply a vest that your pet can wear. The gentle constant pressure of the vest provides a calming effect on most dogs and is like the concept of swaddling an infant.

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