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Pet Firework Safety

Tips for keeping your pets safe this Guy Fawkes Night


Fireworks can cause fear, stress and anxiety in pets, livestock, zoo animals and wildlife. They can also cause physical injuries if an animal is too close when the fireworks are lit, or if they get spooked and try to run away.

We recommend checking your local council’s website and social media channels for announcements about any public displays they have planned around Guy Fawkes Night. This way, you can take some time to prepare yourself and your animals for displays in your area.

If your pets get anxious or scared around fireworks, there are a few ways you can help keep them safe and calm. 


1. Keep pets indoors

Bring your pets inside for the night so you can keep an eye on them. Create a quiet, calming space for them by keeping the curtains and windows closed.

2. Give your pet somewhere comforting to hide

Your pet may want to stay snuggled up next to you if your neighbours are letting off fireworks, but make sure they have a safe, quiet space to retreat to if they get scared. Pet igloos, boxes and crates are all great options. You can make the space extra cosy by adding their favourite blanket or soft toy.

3. Move farm animals and horses away from fireworks

If you have a farm or lifestyle block, make sure your animals are secured in an area away from any fireworks that might be let off. Secure all fences and put horses in stables if you can.

4. Check on animals regularly

Whether your animals are inside with you or outside in a paddock or stable, we recommend checking on them regularly if there are fireworks going off in your area.

5. Keep your vet’s contact details on hand

If your animal is hurt or injured, they may need emergency veterinary care. Make sure you know how to contact your vet or local emergency clinic.

6. Microchip your pet

Microchipping is a vital tool to help you reunite with your pet if they get lost or injured due to fireworks in your area. Talk to our team about microchipping and registering your pet on the national companion animal register (details on how to register your pet’s microchip can be found at animalregister.co.nz). Make sure you keep your contact details up to date on the register and consider providing a second trusted contact in case you’re not available straight away.

7. Contact the SPCA or your local vet if you find injured wildlife

Fireworks can scare or injure wildlife in your area too. If you come across an injured bird or other animal, contact your local SPCA or vet clinic. 

8. Be careful when settling frightened animals

Remember, your safety is important too! If your animals are distressed, they could react in uncharacteristic ways. Please use caution when handling or settling frightened animals.
 

AnimalCare 2002 Limited

Animal Care Vets is actively involved in our local community. We support a number of charities, including the SPCA. We also care for the Hawkes Bay Police dogs. Our customers know by experience that they can rely on us for sound advice on treatment options and that their pet is in the very best hands with our team.