How to keep your pets safe and calm this Bonfire Night – Tips from RSPCA York
From organised displays to back garden parties, this Bonfire Night will see huge numbers of fireworks exploding in the skies of York.
But while great fun for humans it can be stressful for pets.
I spoke to RSPCA York to ask for their advice on keeping your pets calm and safe during these upcoming weeks.
Rachael from RSPCA York told me that her dog Mabel, who was nine years old when she was adopted, reacts in a range of different ways at this time of year.
She starts to shake, tucks her tail between her legs and she runs from room to room.
Rachael said that she is “inconsolable and doesn’t want to be touched.” As she lives so close to the city centre the fireworks can go on for hours.
In order to help Mabel throughout the fireworks displays, Rachael makes little dens so that she can hide. “It’s the only thing that gives her any comfort,” she said.
Low noise fireworks
- Use low noise fireworks and give your neighbours plenty of warning.
- Never set off fireworks near livestock or horses.
- Build any bonfire as close as possible to the time of lighting, to reduce the risk of wildlife making their home inside.
- Pick up firework debris and litter after is has cooled down.
The RSPCA have a campaign running entitled #BangOutOfOrder which is enabling you to change the fireworks regulations in the UK to make them safer for animals.
Since 2014, the charity has received 2,285 calls about fireworks and the affects they can have.
They recommend giving your dog or cat a safe place to hide where they have access to at all times. This is also to ensure your pet cannot escape if there is a sudden loud bang.
The RSPCA also recommend to close all windows and curtains and put some soft music on to mask the sound.