Fireworks, Furry Friends, and a Bit of Common Sense

(Because it’s that time of year again…)

Every year, as soon as the first pack of fireworks lands in the shops, you can almost hear the country split in two.

On one side: the “Oh here we go again, stop moaning, it’s only a few bangs!” crowd.

On the other: pet owners quietly dreading the next few weeks of shaking, panting, hiding, drooling, and that’s just us trying to calm the dogs down.

This isn’t about being miserable or anti-fun. It’s about awareness. Because whilst fireworks might look lovely to us, they can be absolutely terrifying for the animals that share our world, not just dogs, but cats, horses, rabbits, birds, and all the local wildlife trying to mind their own business in the dark.

What Fireworks Actually Do to Animals

We know what fireworks are. Our pets don’t.

To them, it’s not Bonfire Night, it’s “the sky is exploding and we’re all about to die” night.

Dogs shake, cats vanish under beds, horses bolt, rabbits freeze. Birds even abandon their nests in panic. It’s chaos for them, and sadly, sometimes it ends in injury or worse.

Desensitising Your Dog (or at Least Making Things a Bit Easier This Week)

Ideally, desensitising starts weeks or even months before fireworks season, it’s about teaching your dog that those scary bangs aren’t actually a threat.

But since we’ve only got a few days (and let’s be honest, most of us are only just thinking about it now), here’s what you can do to help your dog feel a bit more comfortable this week:

• Keep the Calm Vibes Going:

Stick to your usual routine and avoid adding extra stress. The calmer you are, the calmer your dog will feel.

• Turn Up the Background Noise:

Pop the telly or radio on to soften the bangs. It’s not high-tech, but it works.

• Create a Safe Space:

A cosy den with blankets, toys, and something that smells like you can work wonders when things kick off outside.

• Stay Positive:

If your dog hears fireworks but doesn’t panic, reward that calm with a bit of fuss or a treat,  you’re quietly building confidence for next time.

• Think Long-Term:

When the chaos is over, that’s the time to start proper desensitisation for next year. Slow and steady is key.

 When You’ve Got Time on Your Hands (aka The Calm Before Next Year’s Storm)

If you want to make next firework season easier, start once life’s gone quiet again. Desensitisation works best when the world’s calm, not when the sky’s exploding.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Start Early:

Play low-volume firework sounds from YouTube or Spotify during calm times, when you’re cooking, watching telly, or pottering about. Keep it relaxed and no big deal.

• Go Slow:

If your dog’s chilled, gradually nudge the volume up over a few weeks. If they get uneasy, drop it back down. Patience beats pressure every time.

• Make It Positive:

Pair the sounds with dinner, play, or a favourite toy. You’re teaching them: bangs = good stuff.

• Keep It Light:

This isn’t a “training session.” It’s just life happening with a few background noises. Normal and boring, that’s the goal.

• Get Help If You Need It:

For particularly nervous or rescue dogs, a behaviourist can create a personalised plan.

Helping Your Pets Cope on the Night

Even with preparation, Bonfire Night still takes a bit of planning. A few small things can make a big difference:

• Walk dogs early, before dark.

• Keep cats in and curtains closed.

• Leave the TV or radio on.

• Create a cosy den or safe corner.

• Stay calm — your pets look to you for reassurance.



• Check microchips and collars are up to date (just in case).

A Little Respect Goes a Long Way

We’re not saying ban fireworks completely (though we wouldn’t mind if they were limited to organised displays with some notice).
Kindness never ruined anyone’s fun, but it might just make the night a little easier for those who don’t understand what all the fuss is about.