RSPCA Cambridgeshire Mid East Branch Fireworks frighten animals Tips from the RSPCA for keeping pets secure With restrictions due to Covid-19 this year many community events will not be happening. It is likely more people will go back to enjoying fireworks in their gardens again, but fireworks are frightening for animals in any location. For dogs and cats Walk dogs during daylight hours Keep dogs and cats indoors after dark and when fireworks are likely to be set off At nightfall close windows and curtains Play music or television to muffle the sound of fireworks Give your cat or dog extra bedding and somewhere to hide that they have access to at all times, e.g under furniture or in a quiet corner Don't try to tempt your cat out as this will cause them to become more stressed Calming sprays or diffusers may help dogs and cats feel less distressed - ask your vet Don't take dogs out to any fireworks displays - they are highly likely to be stressed Don't punish or fuss over pets as it can make things worse For outdoor small animals If your pets live outside, cover cages, pens and aviaries for sound-proofing, leaving some ventilation. Provide lots of extra bedding so your pets have something to burrow in. For wild animals Build bonfires as late as possible, and check them for wild animals. Hedgehogs especially are at risk because they are likely to shelter and sleep in bonfire material. For horses, ponies and donkeys It's sensible to keep your horse in a familiar environment, following their normal routine with their usual companions. If your horse is staying in their field, check the fencing is secure and there are no dangerous objects they could collide with if startled. If stabled, ensure hay nets are secure so your horse can't get caught up. www.rspca-cambridgeshiremideast.org.uk Reg. Charity No. 205294 RSPCA Cambridgeshire Mid East Branch Fireworks frighten animals Tips from the RSPCA for keeping pets secure With restrictions due to Covid-19 this year many community events will not be happening. It is likely more people will go back to enjoying fireworks in their gardens again, but fireworks are frightening for animals in any location. For dogs and cats Walk dogs during daylight hours Keep dogs and cats indoors after dark and when fireworks are likely to be set off At nightfall close windows and curtains Play music or television to muffle the sound of fireworks Give your cat or dog extra bedding and somewhere to hide that they have access to at all times, e.g under furniture or in a quiet corner Don't try to tempt your cat out as this will cause them to become more stressed Calming sprays or diffusers may help dogs and cats feel less distressed - ask your vet Don't take dogs out to any fireworks displays - they are highly likely to be stressed Don't punish or fuss over pets as it can make things worse For outdoor small animals If your pets live outside, cover cages, pens and aviaries for sound-proofing, leaving some ventilation. Provide lots of extra bedding so your pets have something to burrow in. For wild animals Build bonfires as late as possible, and check them for wild animals. Hedgehogs especially are at risk because they are likely to shelter and sleep in bonfire material. For horses, ponies and donkeys It's sensible to keep your horse in a familiar environment, following their normal routine with their usual companions. If your horse is staying in their field, check the fencing is secure and there are no dangerous objects they could collide with if startled. If stabled, ensure hay nets are secure so your horse can't get caught up. www.rspca-cambridgeshiremideast.org.uk Reg. Charity No. 205294