How to Protect Cats & Dogs on Guy Fawkes Night
Stress and Injuries are a Clear Hazard from Bonfires and Fireworks
Oct 6, 2009
Animals are vulnerable at the best of times. When large bonfires are being constructed and young teenagers have access to powerful fireworks, mishaps, accidents and stress can be the result.
Unfortunately not all shopkeepers will obey the law when it comes to selling and fireworks can get into the hands of much younger children. Do not hesitate to report inappropriate use of fireworks to the police, for their own safety as much as your pets.
For potential stress caused by all this, extra precautions are needed. Not just on bonfire night itself but also in the month leading up to the 5th of November, and some time afterwards.
Bonfire & Fireworks and Your Pets - Top Tips
- Find out where your local firework display is located; contact your local council for information
- Err on the side of caution. Keep all pets indoors on the big night. Even confident pets can be overwhelmed by large firework displays
- Ask your neighbours if they are planning a firework display and how long it will go on for
- Remember that fireworks can fall onto your property - prevent your curious pooch from swallowing something noxious by checking for fallen firework remains
- Check your home thoroughly for possible hazards you may not consider normally - stressed pets can become destructive and behave unusually
- Don't let your pets play near unlit bonfires - Dogs love smells but often bonfires, which are usually built up over several weeks can have nails and other dangerous objects hidden in planks of wood etc.
- Build a safe, comfortable bolt hole for your pet. Try and do this early so that it becomes a familar place
- Consider keeping your curious kitty indoors for a while leading up the big night
- Exercise dogs before main event but beware of possible unscheduled fireworks
- Distract your pet with play
- If your cat or dog is stressed don't over comfort as this communicates that something is seriously wrong and can agitate your pet more
- If your pet has a history of stress over fireworks then consult your vet about possible medication
- Never use out of date pills or medication meant for humans
- Don't be tempted to leave your pet by itself, it depends on you
Bonfire Night Can be Fun and Safe
Guy Fawkes night is an enjoyable time for all the family with a long history of celebration and fun, but it can be the worse time for small and not so small animals, who will be confused about what is happening. This is one of those times when pet owners have to take extra responsibility for animals that depend on them for care and consideration. Even if that means missing out on the 400 year old celebration of poor old Guy Fawkes.
Source:
People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA)
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