Pet and horse owners in Blaenau Gwent are being urged to prepare now for firework season to help minimise the stress of fireworks for their animals.
Fireworks season starts in advance of Bonfire Night and continues until the New Year celebrations, but steps can be taken in advance to help keep their animals calm.
Animal Health Officers are advising owners are advised to take action ahead of the fireworks season to avoid their animals becoming frightened by the sudden flashes of light and loud bangs.
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place and Environment Councillor Helen Cunningham said:
“There is a need to raise awareness of fireworks and the effect they have on pets, horses, livestock and local wildlife. We must not forget that he loud bangs and bright flashes of light can cause alarm and anxiety and can be incredibly frightening for many animals.
“We are encouraging pets and horse owners to prepare for the firework season and for people thinking about doing fireworks displays to consider the advice carefully and consider any impact on animals.”
Advice to how to keep your pets safe:
• Always keep dogs and cats inside when fireworks are being let off.
• Close all windows and doors and block off cat flaps.
• Ensure dogs are wearing some form of identification.
• Prepare a den for your pet where it can feel safe and comfortable.
• Let your pet pace around, whine, miaow and hide if it wants to.
• Try not to cuddle and comfort pets as they will think you are worried too.
• Avoid leaving pets alone during whilst fireworks are being let off.
• Don't tie your dog up outside while fireworks are being let off.
• Never take your dog to a firework display.
Advice for horse owners from the Welsh Government:
• Find out the times and locations of planned firework events in your area. Event organisers must not plan fireworks near horses in fields or stables.
• Tend to your horses as usual and keep them in safe, familiar environments. This could mean leaving them outside during the fireworks if this is their normal routine. If they are particularly frightened of fireworks, you may want to consider stabling them overnight.
• Stay safe and watch out for startled horses to avoid injury.
• The morning after fireworks, it's important to do a health check on your horse to ensure their wellbeing and check for any visible injuries.
For further helpful advice visit the RSPCA website and search fireworks or the Blue Cross website and search fireworks and pets.