Don't Let Bonfire Night Be a Nightmare: Top Tips for Calming Your Pet

Scared of Fire Works? Helping your pets cope with bonfire night!

As autumn deepens and Bonfire Night approaches, the excitement of fireworks and bonfires fills the air for many of us. However, for countless pets, this time of year brings immense stress and fear. The sudden loud noises, bright flashes, and vibrations from fireworks can be incredibly disorienting and frightening for dogs, cats, and even smaller pets.

At Sniff and Stride, we understand how worrying it can be to see your beloved companion distressed. Here are some proactive steps you can take to make Bonfire night safer and calmer for your furry family members.

1. Create a Safe Haven

One of the most important things you can do is set up a designated "safe space" for your pet. This could be a den under a table, a comfy crate, or even a quiet room away from windows. Fill it with their favourite blankets, toys, and a water bowl. The goal is to make it feel as secure and comforting as possible, a place they can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed.

2. Mask the Noise

Turn on the radio or TV to a moderate volume to help mask the sound of fireworks. Classical music or talk radio can be particularly effective. You can also buy specific pet calming music or white noise generators. Close all windows and curtains to muffle sounds and block out bright flashes of light.

3. Early Walks & Toilet Breaks

Walk your dogs earlier in the day before fireworks are likely to start. Ensure they have had lots of opportunity to relieve themselves. Keep cats indoors once it starts to get dark, as they can easily get frightened and disorientated outside.

Don't forget smaller pets! Bring outdoor hutches and cages indoors if possible, or provide extra bedding and cover. Cover aviaries and aquariums with blankets to reduce light flashes and muffle sounds.

4. Stay Calm & Reassure

Pets can pick up on our emotions. Try to remain calm and act normally. If your pet comes to you for comfort, offer gentle reassurance, but avoid overly fussing, which can inadvertently reinforce their fearful behaviour. Distract them with their favourite games or treats if they're willing to engage.

5. Microchip & ID Tags

With increased risk of pets bolting due to fear, ensure your pet's microchip details are up-to-date and that they are wearing an ID tag with your current contact information. This is crucial for their safe return if they do manage to escape.

6. Consider Calming Aids

If your pet suffers severely from anxiety, speak to your vet well in advance about calming products. These could include pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or even prescribed medication for extreme cases. Start using them a few days before Bonfire Night for best results.

7. Desensitisation & Counter-Conditioning (Start Early!)

While it might be a bit late for this year if you're reading this close to Bonfire Night, it's a fantastic strategy for the future! You can gradually introduce your pet to firework sounds using sound CDs or online playlists, played at a very low volume. Pair these sounds with positive experiences like treats, playtime, or cuddles. Slowly increase the volume over weeks or months, helping your pet associate the sounds with something pleasant rather than frightening.

This time of year can be terrifying for your pets but with a little preperation you can try and help your pets as much as possible at this stressful time!