Fireworks can be scary for our pets, so on bonfire night (or Guy Fawkes) it's important to consider your animal's comfort and make them feel as safe as possible. Some dogs and cats don't mind the whizzes and bangs at all, while others disappear and take weeks to get over the stress, even with a dog-calming plug in to try and keep them chilled.
Sure it's fun for us, with Bonfire night food to enjoy while we watch the bright colourful fireworks flashing in the sky, but bonfire night for pets is not so fun. However, there are some things you can do to lessen the shock.
Why do pets get scared of fireworks?
Loud bangs caused by firework displays can cause increased levels of stress for dogs and cats, as they have more sensitive hearing than humans. When pets are scared, their fight or flight response is activated but because they are stuck in the house, there is nowhere to hide from the loud sounds.
Six ways to prepare for bonfire night with pets
Expert lecturer in animal care at South Devon College, Stuart Collier, shares his six top tips on what you can do to bonfire night with pets:
1. Create a cosy space
Set up a spot in one of the quietest rooms in your home where your pet can hide away from the noise. A blanket or their favourite toy might help them feel more secure.
2. Drown out the noise
Try to block out the bangs and booms by closing windows and curtains, playing calming music, or turning on the television. This can help in muting the external noises, hopefully making it less distressing for your pets.
It's worth noting that Classic FM are doing a special show for pets on bonfire night, to help them feel calmer during the displays.
3. Protect outside pets
If you have rabbits or guinea pigs outside consider bringing them in for the night and if this isn’t possible then partly cover their cages with blankets.
4. Keep them inside
If possible, don’t leave your pets outside where they’re directly exposed to the noises and flashes of fireworks. Keep cats and dogs indoors as much as possible, close cat flaps, and ensure doors are securely closed.
5. Change walk times
Plan your dog walks earlier in the day when the likelihood of fireworks being set off is lower. This helps in reducing the chances of an unexpected fright during a walk.
6. Stay with them
If possible, try to be with your pets during the most intense parts of the evening when most of the fireworks are going off. Your presence can be a source of comfort and reassurance, helping them feel safe amidst the unsettling noises.
You can read more tips and advice for keeping pets safe on Bonfire night in the RSPCA video below...
Products to keep your pets safe and calm on bonfire night
Best dog tracking device
Amazon / TractiveWith worldwide coverage, the Tractive GPS dog tracker will keep your furry friend safe wherever they are. You can set up escape alerts that will notify you if your dog leaves a designated safe area, which is really handy if you're letting them out to do their business on bonfire night.
It also keeps track of your dog's health and lets you know about their sleep quality and activity patterns too. It will create a wellness score and notify you if something seems unusual. Plus it offers up to ten days of battery life.
Some testers reported that the battery runs out quickly for more active dogs, but were pleased with how quickly it recharges. This is a durable tracker and customers said it is waterproof and can withstand lots of mud and water without any ill effects.
Pros
- It offers health information such as sleep quality and dogs activity.
- It provides worldwide coverage, giving you peace of mind.
- The tracker sends notifications if your dog leaves a designated safe area.
- Includes a sound and light feature which can be activated via the app, improving safety and ease when finding your dog.
Cons
- The more active the dog, the quicker the battery runs out.
- A subscription is required for the real-time tracking.
Best snood for dogs
AmazonThe Cobee Dog Snood is ideal for keeping dog's ears protected during loud noises. You have to make sure their ears are tucked correctly into the snood, but it acts as a calming barrier for your dog, so they aren't as sensitive to louder noises.
Some customers mentioned you might need to size up, but stressed how important it was to read the sizes.
It has high elasticity, meaning it stretches easily over your dogs head.
Pros
- Helps to relieve restlessness in dogs
- Sits snugly around their head and neck
- It's available in different sizes and colours
Cons
- It might not be suitable for all dog sizes
Best calming plug ins
Amazon / FeliwayThese diffuser refills are ideal for use with each bottle lasting for up to 30 days. The Feliway Classic helps to reduce signs of stress in cats so that they can feel calmer in their home.
The diffusers are scentless, and have no effect on humans or other pets in the home, but they can help prevent scratching, urinating and fear for cats.
Pros
- Lasts up to 30 days
- Scentless, with no effect on humans
Cons
- Doesn't always work for all cats
Best calming pet spray
AmazonIdeal for helping your pet calm instantly, the Pet Remedy Natural De-Stress Calming Spray is perfect for using at home or on the go. You can spray it directly to your pets bedding, or you can gently massage it into their fur.
It uses a water-based formula which is also safe for pets skin, and can be used on a range of animals from cats and dogs to rabbits.
Pros
- It can be sprayed on pet furniture or gently rubbed into their fur
- It uses a water-based formula which is gentle on pets
- It starts to work straight away
Cons
- It lasts 2 to 6 hours depending on the type of pet it's used on
Best anxiety pet bed
AmazonThe Bedsure Donut Dog Beg is available in an array of different colours and sizes to suit your cat or dog. Its dipped centre provides a safe space for pets to curl up, with the bolstered sides offering coverage to them wanting to hide. It's also good at providing neck support too.
It has a a gripped base so it doesn't slide as easily across smooth flooring, and customers loved how plush and comfortable it was for their pets.
Pros
- Available in a range of different sizes and colours
- Arched sides for neck support or offering slight coverage
- It's super soft and cosy
Cons
- You need to leave it 48 hours to take its shape
About the author
Samantha Ball is a Features & Reviews Editor for Yours and Mother&Baby and has been a journalist since 2018, having worked across different online lifestyle brands. She's a mum of two who loves to bake themed cakes for her kids. She also has two dogs she enjoys long walks with, and two cats.