Video: The RSPCA warn Bonfire Night can be a stressful time for pets and wildlife
Bonfire Night can be lots of fun but for pets who don’t know what’s going on it can be a terrifying experience.
It is estimated that 45 per cent of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks and the RSPCA received over 400 calls relating to them during October and November last year.
Radcliffe Animal Shelter, based on Nottingham Road, in Radcliffe on Trent, provides accommodation for over 180 cats and dogs as well as many other small animals and birds.
Classical music can make the experience less frightening for them
Centre manager Ella Carpenter said: “Bonfire Night can be a tremendously stressful time for pets and wildlife.
“The general advice is to keep pets indoors and create a safe and calming environment.
“Things like keeping the curtains closed, turning on the TV and radio, and playing classical music can all help make the experience less frightening.”
5 top tips to keep your pet calm
- Provide a quiet, comfortable space such as a crate or den.
- Turn up the TV or radio to help block out loud noise.
- Play classical music which has a soothing effect.
- Read them a book to keep you both relaxed.
- Keep curtains closed and stay indoors together.
Ella says it is important to stay calm yourself and avoid giving your pet too much extra attention.
She said: “Try not to spoil your pet as this will be rewarding their fear and anxiety.
“Instead try reading them a book in a soothing voice which will calm them down and help you to relax too.”
The shelter advises keeping cats and dogs inside, especially when it gets dark.
Veterinary Surgeon Charlotte Hanson said: “Scared pets will tend to go to a quiet place or go underground and hide.
“They won’t like people approaching them so it’s best to keep them indoors where it’s safe.
“Stay calm with them, talk to them and seek advice from you’re vet if there’s any issues.”
Please check your bonfire before lighting, to let animals escape! https://t.co/6vVrSx036b pic.twitter.com/S9aBtC0He5
— RSPCA (@RSPCA_official) October 30, 2016
As well as caring for pets on Bonfire Night, the RSPCA say it’s important to consider wildlife too.
They advise to always check bonfires for hedgehogs and small animals before lighting and be cautious of letting off fireworks in areas with nesting birds.
For more information on protecting wildlife visit the RSPCA website.
