Pets & Turtle Data

Bonfire night is just around the corner and although fireworks and bonfires can be very enjoyable for humans, your pets may not feel the same.

The loud bangs can unsettle many animals, and a PDSA survey has found that 9 million cats and dogs suffer from anxiety, stress and fear due to fireworks going off.

Owners should take care to help their pet feel as comfortable as possible when there are fireworks within earshot, and there are a number of things that the PSDA recommends owners do to keep animals calm.

Animals shouldn’t be taken to displays, even if they are wearing dog collars and dog training leads, as the noise and the amount of people will cause more stress and worry to your pet than if it was kept in your home.

Instead you should create a cosy den for them to allow them somewhere to hide where they feel safe, and reward them when they spend time in the place so that they build a good association with this area.

On the actual night homeowners should ensure that doors, windows, cat flaps and curtains are all kept closed to minimise distress.

If an animal is distressed they may demonstrate some strange behaviour, and it is important to not stress them out even more by using things such as dog training supplies. Instead, you should act normally around them and ignore their behaviour, maybe putting on some music or the TV to drown out the sounds.

Most animals will get through Bonfire Night without getting too stressed if you keep them calm, but being prepared for their distress can help both you and them have an easier night.