How to Keep Your Pet Safe During Fireworks Season in the UK: Essential Tips and Tools

Fireworks can be thrilling for us, but for pets, they’re often a source of anxiety and risk. With Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve and other local displays, the UK sees plenty of fireworks throughout the year. Learn how to keep your dog or cat calm, comfortable and safe during firework season, with practical advice and smart tech like scannable QR pet ID tags for extra peace of mind if your pet gets spooked and bolts.

Why Fireworks Pose a Risk for UK Pets

Fireworks are an integral part of British celebrations, from Bonfire Night to New Year’s Eve and summer festivals. While many of us look forward to these colourful displays, pets are often terrified by the loud noises, bright flashes and unfamiliar smells. Unfortunately, this fear can lead to panic, injury, or even your pet going missing.

• Noise phobia: Sudden bangs can trigger stress and anxiety.
• Escape attempts: Frightened pets may bolt from gardens, homes, or slip collars while out walking.
• Injury: Jumping fences, running into roads, or other dangerous behaviours can occur when animals are scared.

In fact, missing pet reports spike around firework events in the UK every year. Preparing ahead is crucial to protect your furry friend.

Signs Your Pet is Scared of Fireworks

• Pacing, panting or trembling
• Hiding behind furniture, under beds, or in cupboards
• Whining, barking, or meowing excessively
• Loss of appetite
• Trying to escape through doors or windows
• Destructive behaviour

If your pet shows any of these signs, it’s important to take extra precautions during fireworks season.

Preparing Your Home: Creating a Safe Haven

One of the best ways to reduce your pet’s stress is to prepare your home in advance of any expected fireworks. Here’s how:

• Choose a quiet room: Ideally, select an interior space away from windows. Set it up with your pet’s bed, favourite toys, blankets and water.
• Draw curtains and blinds: This will help muffle noise and hide flashes of light.
• Add background noise: Play the TV, radio or calming music at a low volume to help mask explosive sounds.
• Distract with treats or toys: Puzzle feeders and long-lasting chews can keep your pet occupied.
• Use pheromone diffusers: Plug-in diffusers for cats or dogs can help promote a sense of calm.

Table: Top Tips for Pet Firework Safety at Home

Before the Event: Checklist for Pet Safety

• Walk dogs early: Take your dog for a walk before dark, well before fireworks start.
• Feed pets early: Give them dinner before the evening’s celebrations begin.
• Toilet break: Make sure cats and dogs have access to their litter tray or garden before the noise starts.
• Check ID: Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with an up-to-date ID tag. For extra security, use a scannable QR code pet tag so your contact info can be accessed instantly if your pet runs off.
• Secure doors and gates: Double-check all exits to prevent accidental escapes.

What to Do During Fireworks Displays

• Keep all pets indoors and stay with them if possible.
• Act normally and stay calm to reassure your pet.
• Do not scold or punish fearful behaviour. Comfort your pet if they seek reassurance.
• Offer treats, toys or gentle play to distract them.
• If your pet hides, let them stay where they feel safest.
• For outdoor pets, bring them inside temporarily if possible.

For Cats: Extra Tips

• Keep litter trays clean and accessible inside the house.
• Ensure windows and cat flaps are locked.
• Even ‘outdoor cats’ should be kept in during peak fireworks.

For Dogs: Extra Tips

• Try calming vests or anxiety wraps if your dog is especially nervous.
• Never walk your dog during fireworks, even if they seem calm.
• Keep collars, tags and harnesses secure in case of an unexpected dash for the door.

What If Your Pet Gets Lost?

Despite all precautions, frightened pets sometimes manage to escape. Here’s what to do if your dog or cat goes missing during fireworks:

• Act fast: Start searching your local area and call your pet’s name calmly.
• Check hiding spots: Look in sheds, garages, under cars or bushes nearby.
• Use your QR tag: If your pet is wearing a Paw ID QR code tag, anyone who finds them can scan it to contact you immediately. Update your details online if needed.
• Notify neighbours: Let them know and ask them to check their gardens and outbuildings.
• Contact local vets and shelters: Give them a description and your contact info.

Table: How QR Code Pet Tags Aid Fast Recovery

If your pet is not yet fitted with a scannable tag, consider ordering one from Paw ID for future peace of mind.

Year-Round Preparedness: Other Events and Unexpected Bangs

Remember, fireworks aren’t limited to November and December. Local summer fêtes, sporting events and private parties may also include displays. Make it a habit to:

• Check local event calendars for upcoming fireworks shows
• Prepare your home and pets as above whenever needed
• Keep your pet’s ID information up to date

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I give my pet medication to keep them calm?

Always consult your vet before using any medication or supplements. They can recommend safe options if your pet suffers severe anxiety.

Are there natural remedies to help pets during fireworks?

Some owners use natural calming products like pheromone diffusers, calming collars or herbal supplements. These can help some pets, but results vary. Introduce new products before fireworks season to monitor any reactions.

Should I leave my pet alone during fireworks?

If possible, stay home with your pet. Your presence is reassuring and you can respond quickly if your pet becomes distressed.

How can I make my garden escape-proof?

Check for gaps in fences and gates, and repair them ahead of time. Supervise pets when they’re outside and never leave them alone during fireworks displays.

Conclusion: Stay Safe and Prepared

Fireworks season doesn’t have to be a nightmare for UK pet owners. With a little planning, you can keep your pet calm, comfortable and much safer. Simple steps like creating a cosy safe space, updating your pet’s ID with a scannable QR code pet tag, and knowing how to respond if your pet does go missing will make all the difference.

Ready for extra peace of mind? Discover our scannable QR code pet ID tags and help keep your best friend safe all year round.