Fireworks Forecast

Your Quiet Night plan

For the nights fireworks are most likely: Bonfire Night weekend, Diwali and New Year's Eve. Tick things off as you go. Based on advice from the RSPCA and Dogs Trust.

See display times near you

  1. A few days before

    • Check the microchip and ID tagMake sure your phone number and address are up to date, in case they bolt.
    • Set up a denA covered crate, a space behind the sofa or a quiet corner with their own bedding, somewhere they can reach at all times. Cats like hiding places up high too.
    • Find out when displays near you startPut in your postcode on Fireworks Forecast, and note the big nights for garden fireworks.
    • Rabbits and guinea pigsPartly cover hutches and runs with a blanket, leaving a gap to look out, and add extra bedding to burrow in. If you bring them indoors, do it gradually.
    • HorsesCheck fencing is secure, and let organisers of nearby displays know there are horses close by.
    • Very scared pet? Talk to your vet nowThey can discuss calming products or medication, or refer you to a behaviourist for longer-term help.

  2. On the day

    • Walk in daylightDo the evening walk well before dusk, keep them on the lead, and make sure they've had a toilet break.
    • Feed before the fireworks startNervous pets often won't eat once the bangs begin.
    • Bring cats in before darkClose the cat flap and put out a litter tray.
    • Shut out the nightClose windows and curtains, and check doors, gates and garden fences are secure.
    • Plan to be homeDogs especially can panic if left alone during fireworks, so stay in with them if you can.

  3. While the fireworks are going off

    • Put the TV or calm music onIt helps soften the bangs.
    • Comfort them if they come to youIt's fine to reassure a scared pet. If they'd rather hide, let them stay where they feel safe.
    • Stay calm and never tell them offBeing relaxed yourself helps. A chew or a favourite toy keeps some dogs busy.

  4. Afterwards

    • Check the garden before letting them outLook for spent fireworks and debris that may have landed overnight.
    • Note what helpedWrite down how they coped and what worked, so you're ready for New Year's Eve.

If it's bad every year

Fear of fireworks can be treated over weeks with gradual sound training, ideally with help from your vet or a qualified behaviourist. It's worth starting early in the new year, well before next autumn.

Get a heads-up before the next big night

Join the free Quiet Nights list for an email on the morning of any display near you, and a reminder before New Year's Eve.

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