Fireworks can be a beautiful sight, but they can also be stressful for our pets. Here are some simple, practical tips to help keep your animals safe, comfortable, and calm as possible during firework displays.
Recognise fireworks anxiety
Animals often perceive loud noises and bright flashes as threats. Dogs and cats, with their highly sensitive hearing, may bark, hide, tremble, or try to escape. With a bit of preparation and patience, you can make this stressful time easier for them.
Keep pets indoors
Always bring your pets inside well before fireworks begin. Keep curtains and windows closed to muffle the noise and prevent flashing lights from startling them.
Provide a safe hideaway
Set up a safe, quiet spot in your home where you pet can retreat to if they feel scared – a covered crate, box, or cosy bed works well. Add their favourite toys or blankets to make it feel extra comforting.
Use calming sounds and aids
Playing soothing music or white noise can help muffle the sound of fireworks. You might also consider calming aids like pheromone diffusers, or in some cases, prescription medications – but always check with your vet before using them.
Make sure they can be identified
Make sure your pet is microchipped with up-to-date contact details and wears a collar with ID tags. This gives you the best chance of being reunited quickly if they run away in a panic.
Look out for horses and farm animals too
Move your horses and other farm animals to a secure area well away from fireworks (if possible). Small paddocks or stables are ideal to minimise running around. Double-check fences are as safe as possible and ensure gates are latched.
Handle them safely
Stay with your pet during fireworks to offer calm reassurance.
Avoid handling frightened animals abruptly, as they may react unpredictably and injure themselves or you.
Keep dogs on a leash if they need to go outside to toilet and supervise them closely.
Don't go into a confined space (such as a stable) with a horse if they're anxious, as you may be trampled if they panic.
Keep our contact details handy in case your pet is injured or extremely distressed – we’re here to help 24/7, simply call 0800 VETSOUTH.
Talk to your neighbours
If you think fireworks will be set off nearby, have a friendly chat with those neighbours. They might be able to set off their display at an agreed time, so you can plan ahead and arrange to be with your pet. For some animals, you may also be able to take them away during that time.
Check for public fireworks displays
Look up council announcements for public displays. As these are scheduled events, it makes it easier to prepare for them if they are going to be near your home. We recommend avoiding having private fireworks displays if you have animals, so attending a public display (that's far enough away it's not going to affect your pets) could be an option to experience fireworks.
Our final tips
Keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible – predictability can be very reassuring.
Don’t force them out of hiding or overwhelm them with attention, let them come to you when they’re ready.
For pets with severe anxiety, talk to your vet about options such as pheromone collars or vet-prescribed medications.
Products like Thunder Shirts can help some dogs feel more secure.
If your pet’s stress or fear continues well after the fireworks, get in touch with us for advice.
Remember: Planning matters
A little preparation goes a long way. Setting up a safe space, keeping routines steady, and being attentive to your pet’s needs can help them cope better with fireworks.
But most of all, your reassuring presence is the best comfort for your pet during noisy celebrations.
Help keep your pets stay calm and safe this fireworks season!
