As bonfire season lights up the skies with fireworks and celebrations, it’s easy to forget how stressful this time can be for our pets. Loud bangs, flashing lights, and unusual smells can be frightening for dogs, cats, and even small animals. Here are some practical tips to help keep your furry (and feathered!) friends safe and calm this season.
Make sure your pet has a quiet, comfortable place to retreat to. Close windows and curtains to muffle the sounds and block out the flashes. Play calming background noise like the TV, radio, or white noise to help disguise fireworks sounds.
Tip: Introduce the safe space early — so your pet associates it with comfort, not stress.
Even the most confident pets can panic at sudden noises. Keep dogs and cats indoors before fireworks start, and walk dogs early in the evening while it’s still light. Make sure all doors, windows, and cat flaps are secure — frightened animals can bolt or hide in dangerous places.
Rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds can also be scared by loud bangs. If possible, move outdoor hutches into a shed or garage during displays. Cover cages with thick blankets (leaving gaps for ventilation) to help muffle sounds and block light flashes.
In case your pet does escape, make sure their microchip and ID tag details are up to date. This simple step can make all the difference in reuniting you quickly if they run away in fright.
If your pet gets very anxious, consider talking to your vet about pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or natural calming supplements. Every animal is different, so getting professional advice is key.
Always check bonfires before lighting them — small animals like hedgehogs, frogs, or even cats might have taken shelter inside. Move the pile before lighting, or build your bonfire on the day of burning to prevent harm to wildlife.
