A Cumbrian animal charity are asking people to avoid buying fireworks to help reduce the amount of terrified pets.
Oak Tree Animals’ Charity, based in Carlisle, said it is calling on animal lovers to donate to local charities with money that might otherwise be used to purchase fireworks.
It added that every year, there is an increase in the use of fireworks which regularly leads to animals becoming seriously injured running away to escape the noise.
The call to action is part of the organisations latest seasonal campaign #DontMakeANoiseMakeADifference.
Caroline Johnson, general manager at the charity, said: “Fireworks season can be a daunting time for many pet owners. We know that one in two dogs, one in three cats, and four out of five horses show fear or anxiety when they hear fireworks.
“We hope that our campaign will help reduce the number of private firework events that occur throughout October and November and give pet owners support and advice to keep their pets as calm as possible.
“We recognise that many people love fireworks so ask them to consider attending a public display rather than holding their own or consider using silent fireworks to cause less stress to animals in their neighbourhood.
“Working together we can help make this period better for animals in our region.”
Oak Tree Animals’ Charity has shared additional advice to remember on – and around – November 5 to help keep pets as calm as possible:
Sound therapy
Part of the reason dogs and cats are frightened by fireworks is due to the noise being so unfamiliar.
Pets can be desensitised by playing firework sounds at a very low level, rewarding calmness and then gradually increasing the volume as the time increases.
Pet owners should remember to take it very slow, over several weeks and months, at no point should a pet be scared – firework desensitisation sounds can be found online.
Creating a safe space
Cosy dens can make all the difference to pets at firework time. Give them somewhere they can hide away from windows and disturbance and create soundproofing using blankets and cushions.
Put a few of their favourite toys and treats in the den. Introduce the den a few weeks before the event so your pet has time to get used to it. Cats may prefer to sleep up high so clear a shelf in a quiet place, so they feel safe.
Calming remedies
Products such as Pet Remedy, Adaptil (for dogs) or Feliway (for cats) can help support pets during fireworks. Vets or local animal charities can be asked for advice.
Preparation for equines
During the fireworks period, people are advised to keep their horse’s routine as normal as possible. Check social media (and our site) for details of when fireworks displays are taking place and, if possible, stay with the horse and play music during these times to help mask the sound.
Don’t forget to tidy the equine yard to reduce the risk of fire. Clear away any unused combustible materials like hay, straw, sawdust or paper bedding, and move it away from the stable areas.
On the night
Walking your dog during the daylight hours can help avoid exposure to fireworks. Always keep cats and dogs indoors when fireworks are likely to be set off.
If a pet is scared during fireworks, stay with them and reassure them as appropriate. Play calm classical music to help mask the noises and make sure your curtains are shut!
Classic FM are playing special programmes from 5pm to 9pm on Saturday 4 November and Sunday 5 November for pets to help people keep your pets calm during the peak of the season.
