Bonfire night, or Guy Fawkes Night, takes place on the 5 November each year and Britons will wrap up warm to watch the winter celebrations. Although many people will enjoy the firework displays, the loud noises can leave some pets distressed. These top tips can keep your furry friend safe this bonfire night, according to experts at Pure Pet Food.
While fireworks can be fun for people to watch, animals are much more likely to be disturbed by the noise.
A spokesperson for Pure Pet Food said: “Animals have heightened senses and their hearing in particular is much stronger than ours. A dog’s hearing is twice as sensitive as a human’s for example, and a cat’s three times!
“So, it’s no surprise that a bang from a firework can be frightening for pets. Not to mention the fact that they don’t really understand where it’s coming from – or why.”
So, what can you do to protect your pet? Preparing before and during the fireworks can keep your pet happy.
READ MORE: How to avoid your home being targeted by burglars this Bonfire Night
Walk
“Take your dog for a walk before it starts to get dark, as it might be a while before it’s safe for them to venture outside again to go to the toilet,” the experts added.
Security
They said: “Make sure you shut all of the doors and windows in your home and don’t forget to draw the curtains. This will help to block out any flashes of light and reduce the noise level of fireworks.”
Den
“Use your dog’s favourite blankets, toys, or an unwashed item of your clothing to make them a little den in a quiet corner of your house. This could help them feel safer and more secure.”
By following these tips before fireworks begin, pet owners will start to prepare their animals as much as possible.
Act normally
They said: “Try to act as normal, as your pet will pick up on any unusual behaviour. Be calm, happy and cheerful as this will send positive signals to your pet.”
Company
“Avoid leaving your pet alone when fireworks are going off near your house, and if you do have to leave, don’t get angry with your pet if you find they’ve been destructive or messed in the house – shouting at a frightened pet will only make them more stressed,” experts explained.
The top tips can help protect animals from the loud noises on firework celebrations and they will help cats and dogs in particular, the experts explained.