Prepare pets early
Exercise pets before dark, close curtains, and set up food, water, bedding, and familiar toys.
Considerate celebrations
Pets and animals
Practical steps to reduce stress and keep domestic pets, horses, and livestock safer during fireworks.
Plan spectator safety
Animal care
Prepare before fireworks begin
Small preparations before dark can reduce stress and make it easier to keep pets, horses and livestock secure.
Prepare for firework sounds
Organisations including Dogs Trust (for dogs) and PDSA (for cats) offer guidance on gradual sound desensitisation to firework noises. Start well before firework season, follow the guidance for your pet and never force exposure to sounds that cause distress. If your pet is already fearful, ask your vet about a clinical animal behaviourist.
Keep animals indoors
Bring cats and dogs inside before fireworks begin and make sure doors, gates, and windows are secure.
Create a calm space
Use a quiet room, low lighting, and familiar sounds to reduce sudden noise and flashes.
Horses and livestock
Coordinate with owners and keepers before choosing a firing location. Check fencing and use the animal’s familiar routine and secure surroundings; obtain species-specific advice from the keeper or vet.
After fireworks
Check gardens, fields, and yards for debris before letting animals back out.