 How to help dogs who are afraid of fireworks:
Many animals find fireworks scary. Owners will often see their pets struggling, either frozen with fear or, in the most dangerous circumstances - bolting, rearing up or charging fences. In situations like these, it's hard to know how to react or what to do. Especially if you're a new pet parent, it may not be something you've even considered in advance of firework season. However, if you're one of the 69% of UK adults taking measures to help relax or prepare your pets, horses and livestock for firework season, there are some helpful hints and tips that'll help. Planning ahead can help dogs cope with the fireworks. Before the fireworks season starts, provide your dog with a doggy safe haven. This should be a quiet area, so choose one of the quietest rooms in your home - a place where they feel in control. Don't interfere with your dog when they're in that area. Train your dog to associate the area with positive experiences, e.g. by leaving their favourite toys there, but not imposing yourself at any time. Use a variety of chew toys, such as stuffed Kongs and chews. Swap them regularly, putting them away when not in use so that your dog doesn't become bored with them. With time, dogs can learn that this place is safe and enjoyable. When fireworks go off, they may choose to go there because they know, in that place, they are safe. It's important that your dog has access to this doggy safe haven at all times - even when you're not at home. Calm your pet during firework nights with radio or TV. 69% of UK adults with a pet take at least one measure to help relax or prepare their animal for firework season. Playing relaxing music is the most common. When the fireworks start Walk your Dog during daylight hours to avoid times when fireworks are likely to be set off. Move your dog to the safe haven each evening before the fireworks begin. Provide toys and other things that they enjoy in the safe haven. Make sure there are things for you to do too, so your dog isn't left alone. Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound of fireworks. Blackout your doggy safe haven, so they can't see any flashes outside. Put on some music or TV to mask the firework sounds. Ignore the firework noises yourself. Play with a toy to see if your dog wants to join in, but don't force them to play. You could also talk to your vet about pheromone diffusers. These disperse calming chemicals into the room and may be a good option for your dog. In some cases, your vet may even prescribe medication. How to help cats who are afraid of fireworks Provide hiding places in your home .e.g. under furniture or a quiet corner. Don't stress your cat by trying to tempt them out. Leave them until they're ready. Keeping them in to avoid them becoming stressed. Microchip your cats in case they're startled and escape outside. How you can help reduce the impact of fireworks on animals If you want to enjoy fireworks, you can make them less frightening for animals in the following ways: Going to an organised event will reduce the number of fireworks disturbing animals. Please only let fireworks off on or around traditional celebration dates (Diwali, Bonfire Night, New Year's Eve and Chinese New Year). Most owners will already know to expect fireworks on these dates and should have prepared accordingly to help their animals cope. Look for low-noise fireworks, and let your neighbours know well in advance so animals including horses and livestock, can be prepared. Never set off fireworks near livestock, as frightened animals - especially horses - can injure themselves when frightened. Remember, fireworks can also disturb wildlife so steer clear of known habitats like lakes with waterfowl and trees with roosting birds. Check bonfires for wildlife before lighting as animals like hedgehogs may be hibernating.
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 Prior to the Animal Welfare Act, animal welfare law was largely reactive and action could only be taken once an animal had suffered unnecessarily.
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