December 7, 2024

Advice on how to keep pets safe on Bonfire Night

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Denbighshire residents are asked to be considerate to their neighbours and pets while enjoying themselves this Bonfire Night.

With a number of organised displays not going ahead this year, those holding their own display are asked to inform their neighbours in advance.

Cllr Mark Young, Denbighshire County Council’s Lead Member for Planning, Public Protection and Safer Communities, said: “We want everyone to enjoy themselves on November 5 in a safe and considerate manner.

“Bonfire Night can have a serious impact on pets and we would encourage everyone to attend an organised display where possible.

“Where households are having their own display then we ask them to be considerate of others and that they inform their neighbours well ahead of time, by calling in person or by popping a note through their letterbox.

“Many complaints spring out of people not telling their neighbours they are planning to hold a firework display and most importantly when the fireworks were going to be let off.

“Neighbours then have a chance to make arrangements in relation to any pets they may keep, or to make plans to go out if they don’t want to listen to the noise.”

Under fireworks regulations there is generally a curfew preventing people from letting off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, but this is extended to midnight on November 5.

To keep your animals safe on Bonfire Night:

  • Keep dogs and cats inside during celebrations
  • Walk dogs during daylight hours
  • Lock cat flaps once cats are indoors
  • Try to avoid leaving your pet alone in the house during fireworks
  • Ensure dogs and cats are wearing visible identification (animals may try to escape if panicked)
  • During fireworks put pets in one room, draw curtains and put on the TV or radio as an alternative noise
  • If you think your pet will be seriously distressed approach your vet for advice on sedation or pheromone sprays
  • Try to bring outdoor pets indoors during celebrations, if not turn hutches to the wall and cover with blankets/duvets