People celebrate Guy Fawkes Night on November 5th every year. This celebration is done in mainly two different ways; one is by having a roaring bonfire and the other by the use of fireworks. If you have a pet it sometimes gets a little difficult to make them feel safe on bonfire night. With a little care and attention you can make it safe for your pet. Here are a few suggestions on how to keep your pet safe on bonfire night.

In our neck of the woods bonfire night is celebrated by lighting a fire and using fireworks. It is an exciting time for all except maybe our pets. If you have a dog or a cat you will have to take precautions regardless how you choose to celebrate.

Outside fires

Although in most areas outside fires are prohibited there are still a few places in the world where they are allowed. Some places still permit a fire in an outside fireplace. It is likely your pet will accept outside fires rather than fireworks but there are still precautions to be taken. If your choice is an outside fire you can keep your dog safe by keeping him on a leash and away from the flame. Some bonfires are huge and so is the heat that emanates from them. Be sure to keep your dog far enough away so that he doesn't feel the intense heat. Fires are exciting on bonfire night and usually draw a crowd so be aware of where your dog is at all times and who is around him. Keep small children at a distance especially if they are carrying sparklers.

Fireworks

Usually fireworks present their own set of problems. Most dogs or cats would rather be anywhere else but near them. It is the noise that becomes the problem for most animals. If your cat or dog is sensitive to loud noises there are some precautions you can take before the fireworks begin. Close all the drapes in your room making sure there are no seams left open. Now is the time to utilize the sound on your TV. Turn it up as loud as you can manage for your own comfort. This will dim out the sound of fireworks and it won't be so scary for your pets.

If your pet is a cat let him hide where he feels comfortable. Don't force him out in the open or try to hold him during the noise. This will only make matters worse. Leave him to his own devices and he will find a place where he feels safe. If your pet is a dog don't try to pamper him if he reacts to the noise. If you show that you are over anxious about the situation he will pick up on this and it will make him more anxious. Just ignore their behavior there is really nothing you can do to ease the fear they feel. You know they are safe and that is the most important thing.

Animals are unpredictable when it comes to noise. Our cat may raise her head and look around for a minute and then return to her slumber while our dogs let us know their disdain for what is taking place. Some dogs don't pay any attention to it whatsoever while others shake with fear. Our two cocker spaniels hate loud noise but other than having to listen to their insistent barking we make sure we carry on as usual in our home and wait until it's over. Bonfire night is only once a year which leaves animals with a fear of noise very little chance of getting use to it but as long as you know how to keep your pets safe on bonfire night is all that's required.

Learn more about this author, Betty Carew.
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