Bonfire night can be a terrifying time for pets and animals— they don’t understand that Guy Fawkes is the only one in danger— so flashing lights and deafening sounds can set off a fight or flight response so they’ll try and bolt fences or act frozen in fear.
It’s our responsibility to make the night as easy an experience as possible for the animals in our lives — anything less would be bang out of order.
Calming sounds and safe spaces
Classical music can be calming for animals and can drown out the scary sounds outdoors — the RSPCA recommend Classic FM’s Pet classics.
Before the night you should prepare a safe ‘den’ in a quiet corner with soft bedding or some of your old clothes which will smell familiar.
Check Bonfires for small animals before lighting
For a small animal like a hedgehog, a bonfire pile looks like a comfy place to make their home, so before you light one up make sure to check through the bottom thoroughly by lifting parts of the bonfire section-by-section using a pole or broom. Do not use a fork, spade or rake as this may injure a hedgehog.
If you’re worried about your pet make sure to contact your local vet for advice.
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