Tips to keep your pets calm during fireworks
Pet owners are being urged to plan ahead for fireworks night to help keep animals calm and feeling safe.
Nearly half of all dogs show signs of anxiety when they hear fireworks but RSPCA says whether it’s a dog, a cat or another little pet, planning ahead can 'pay dividends'.
The RSPCA has published these guidelines on how to help pets feel safe:
Make sure your dog or cat has somewhere to hide - perhaps under some furniture or in a cupboard - and can get to it at any time
Ensure your pet is kept in a safe and secure environment and can’t escape
Make sure your pets are microchipped in case they do escape
During fireworks season, walk dogs during daylight and keep pets indoors when fireworks are likely to be set off
At nightfall, close windows and curtains and put on music to mask and muffle the sound of fireworks
RSPCA animal behaviour expert Dr Samantha Gaines said:
The RSPCA also warns that farm animals can be easily frightened by loud noises and sudden flashes of bright lights, which can startle them and cause them to injure themselves on fencing, farm equipment or in the case of housed animals, on fixtures and fittings within the house.
The charity also says wildlife can be burnt alive after making their home in bonfires.