I remember when ‘Bonfire Night’ was exactly that and not the couple of weeks we now seem to have to endure of fireworks exploding around us – both on the ground and in the air.
I am happy to carry a press release showing that three animal welfare charities have come together to urge local pet owners to be prepared for the aerial disruption as new figures reveal the negative impact fireworks have on pets.
This week, Bath Cats and Dogs Home, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, and Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home have joined forces to encourage pet owners across Bath and North-East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, West Wiltshire and Gloucestershire to plan ahead for their pets’ welfare this firework season.
A recent survey by the RSPCA found that almost two-thirds (63%) of pet owners reported that their pets were distressed by fireworks. The RSPCA receives around 400 calls each year relating to fireworks and animal welfare concerns across England and Wales.
The three charities are encouraging owners to take simple steps before fireworks season begins:
- Find out when local firework displays are taking place.
- Create a safe space or den in your pet’s favourite area of the home.
- Prepare treats, toys and games to help distract pets during periods of loud fireworks.
- Ensure pets cannot escape if they become frightened by sudden noises.
- Use a pheromone diffuser near your pet’s bed or den to help promote calm behaviour.
- If your pet is known to become anxious around fireworks, speak to your vet for advice.
On Bonfire Night itself, owners can help reduce stress by keeping cats indoors, providing a litter tray, and ensuring there are safe places to hide. Dogs should be walked early, before fireworks begin, and accompanied into the garden if they need to go outside later in the evening. Where possible, pets should not be left alone. Playing calming music can help mask the sound of fireworks, such as Classic FM’s Pet Classics programme, produced in partnership with the RSPCA.
Offering treats, interactive toys or gentle play can also help distract pets. Owners should avoid forcing nervous animals out of their hiding places and instead allow them to emerge when they feel ready.
Common signs of firework-related stress in pets include shivering, trembling or panting, excessive barking, hiding or pacing, clingy behaviour or whining or crying. Staying calm and offering reassurance can help pets feel more secure during fireworks season.
Denise Laughlin, Head of Animal Welfare at Bath Cats and Dogs Home, said:
“We’d advise being prepared to help your pets feel calm and safe before the fireworks start. Give your pets somewhere quiet to retreat to if they feel nervous about loud noises. A den or safe space, such as a covered crate with a familiar scent like a piece of your clothing, can provide comfort. Close doors, windows and curtains, create a calm environment with some music, and keep your routine as normal as possible.”
Damian Pacini, Principal Vet at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, said:
“Every pet reacts to fireworks differently. Some tremble and freeze, while others panic, damage furniture or attempt to escape. Early preparation is vital. Setting up a cosy, safe den well in advance, keeping pets indoors before dusk and maintaining a calm routine can all help animals feel more secure.”
Shelby Bridges, Fundraising Lead at Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home, said:
“As pet owners, we all want our animals to feel safe and secure, especially during stressful times like Bonfire Night. During fireworks season, we support the animals in our care by providing quiet spaces, using calming diffusers and playing soothing music to reduce anxiety. We encourage pet owners to take similar steps at home to help keep pets as comfortable as possible.”
As branches of the RSPCA, the three charities support thousands of animals across the region each year. Bath Cats and Dogs Home cares for more than 700 rescue cats and dogs annually from Bath and North-East Somerset, West Wiltshire and North Somerset. Bristol Animal Rescue Centre serves Bristol and surrounding areas and admitted 718 animals in 2025.
Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home supports animals across Gloucestershire and rehomed 286 animals last year.
For more advice on supporting pets during fireworks season, visit:
All good advice for domestic pets but we have no idea what damage is done to wildlife.
