Fireworks can be a source of anxiety for our furry friends. The loud bangs and bright lights can be overwhelming, causing fear and stress in our animals. Whilst some animals may be unfazed by fireworks, as responsible animal owners, it is our duty to ensure their safety and comfort during these challenging events. In this blog, we'll discuss ten essential tips to help you keep your animals calm and feeling safe and secure when fireworks light up the sky.

Provide safe hiding places for your animal

Create safe and comfortable hiding spots in your home where your animal can retreat when fireworks start. This could be a cosy corner, their favourite blanket, or a crate if they're crate-trained, but leave the door open to ensure they can move to a place they may feel safer. Ensure these areas are easily accessible and familiar to your animal.

It’s a good idea to set this space up weeks in advance of bonfire night so your animal has time to get used to it so they can associate it with being a safe space for them.

Don't feel tempted to force them out of hiding when the fireworks have finished; they will come out when they feel safe.

Provide safe hiding places for your animal

It’s a good idea to set this space up weeks in advance of bonfire night so your animal has time to get used to it so they can associate it with being a safe space for them.

Don't feel tempted to force them out of hiding when the fireworks have finished; they will come out when they feel safe.

Exercise your animal before darkness falls

If your dog enjoys walks then try to take them for a walk before it gets too dark, and if your cat likes to venture outside after dark, it’s advisable to keep them inside to avoid them getting stressed during the fireworks. Playing with your animal during the day before the fireworks begin can often help them burn off excess energy, making them more relaxed when the festivities start.

Avoid telling your animal off

If your animal starts acting anxious or frightened, resist the urge to tell them off. Punishing your animal can exacerbate their fear and anxiety, making the situation worse.

Instead, provide comfort and reassurance using gentle words and allow them the option to hide away.

Avoid telling your animal off

If your animal starts acting anxious or frightened, resist the urge to tell them off. Punishing your animal can exacerbate their fear and anxiety, making the situation worse.

Instead, provide comfort and reassurance using gentle words and allow them the option to hide away.

Close doors, windows, and curtains

To minimise external noises and the visual stimulation of fireworks, close all doors and windows. Draw the curtains or blinds to block out flashing lights. Soundproofing your animal's space with soft materials like rugs or blankets can also help dampen the noise.

Bring outdoor animals indoors

If you have outdoor small animals such as rabbits or guinea pigs, you should consider bringing them indoors for the evening during fireworks displays. The loud noises and bright lights can be extremely distressing for these small and vulnerable creatures who particularly susceptible to shock.

Set up a safe and comfortable space inside your home with their cages, food and water to ensure they feel at home and protected from the noise and potential stress. Make sure they are in a room with the heating off so the temperature change from being outside isn’t too much.

Bring outdoor animals indoors

Don’t forget other animals too

Horses and donkeys can get scared by fireworks too. If any large displays are planned locally, consider bringing them into their stables. However, if your horses are used to living out then they may be best kept in their normal field as being confined to a stable can be more stressful. If you can, it’s often a good idea to stay with them because your presence may have a calming effect.

World Horse Welfare have created a set of tips specifically for horse welfare during firework season - https://www.worldhorsewelfare.org/advice/fireworks-keeping-your-horse-safe

Ensure your animal is microchipped

If your animal is likely to go outside or hide somewhere unusual when frightened, ensure they are microchipped and registered on a DEFRA approved database to provide an extra layer of protection in case they escape during fireworks or become lost. Make sure your details on the microchip are up to date so if they do go missing, they can be reunited with you.

Many animals can be microchipped, including cats, dogs, rabbits, tortoises and horses. However, it is also important to remember that it is a legal requirement for dogs, cats and horses to be microchipped.

Maintain a routine

Try to maintain your animal's routine as much as possible. Continue to feed them at their regular times and engage in their usual activities. If your animal enjoys a bit of a fuss then offer some attention and affection which can help reassure your animal that everything is okay.

Play soothing music or keep the TV on

To help disguise the loud sounds of fireworks, consider playing soothing music or keeping the TV on at a reasonable volume. Choose calming and familiar tunes that your animal enjoys. The background noise can help drown out the sudden bursts of noise from outside and create a more comforting atmosphere within your home.

Classic FM have specific programmes on over bonfire night, playing music known to calm and relax animals, you can find out more on their website: Pet Classics is back for 2026, to keep pets calm during fireworks with relaxing... - Classic FM

Play soothing music or keep the TV on

Explore calming products and supplements

If your animal is particularly anxious during fireworks, you may want to explore calming products and supplements. We recommend testing a few products in the weeks leading up to bonfire night, from a few reputable brands, to find a calming solution that works best for your animal companion.

Calming sprays and plug-ins that release pheromones can help create a soothing environment. Additionally, speak to your vet about other calming supplements or medications that may be suitable for your animal's specific needs. They can provide additional guidance on safe and effective options to reduce anxiety.

Fireworks can be a stressful time for animals, but with these ten tips, you can help ensure their safety and well-being. Remember, patience and understanding are key. By providing a safe environment, avoiding punishment, and offering comfort, you can help your beloved animals navigate the fireworks season with less anxiety and fear. This way, both you and your furry companions can enjoy a more peaceful and stress-free season.