Top tips for pet owners on Bonfire Night

Bright flashes of light and bangs are enjoyed by millions of people every year on Bonfire Night but for pets it can be a nerve-wracking time.

Statistics show approximately 80% of dogs, as well as cats, rabbits and guinea pigs, have a phobia of fireworks, which can leave them terrified.

Vets are advising pet owners on how to help keep pets calm during the 'firework' period.

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The top tips to ease your pets stress include:

• Provide a cosy hiding place for your pet to hide inside

• Give outdoor pets lots of extra bedding

• Make sure cat flaps, windows and doors are closed

• Shut curtains or blinds to prevent panicked pets escaping

• Ignore fearful behaviour, such as panting, shaking or whining

• Walk your pet when it is still light outside

• Provide extra litter trays for cats

• Make sure there are plenty of distractions such as new toys to play with

• Turn the TV on to mask the noise of firework

• Try not to leave your pets alone when fireworks are going on

• If you have pets living outside, partially cover their cage with a blanket to muffle noise

Anyone who is planning to have a bonfire tonight, are being encouraged to check that no animals are sheltering underneath it.

South Wales Police's advice is to make some noise to scare them away before setting alight to the bonfire.

For more information check out the advice given by RSPCA and the Blue Cross websites.

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