Pet Friendly Epic Fireworks: How to Keep Your Furry Friends Calm During Bonfire Night

Here at Epic Fireworks, we’re not just about fireworks—we’re animal lovers too. From our pets at home to the menagerie of wild animals that live at our site in Tankersley, we take wildlife and pets seriously, so we encourage everyone to enjoy fireworks responsibly.

Whilst a night of fireworks is exciting for us, they're not always the best night for our pets. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with tips to help make your next firework display a bit less stressful for them and a night you can all enjoy.

So, before you head out to watch the sky light up, let’s chat about how to keep your pet calm, cool, and collected. And yes, we’ll also recommend some fireworks that are less likely to send your dog into a nervous breakdown. We’ve all been there!

Comfort Is Key

When the fireworks start, don’t just leave your pet to fend for themselves. Stick around, offer some affection, and keep them company. If your dog or cat starts getting twitchy, try to stay calm (even if you’re secretly panicking about your dog chewing through another couch leg). Sometimes just sitting next to them, giving a reassuring pat, and speaking softly can work wonders. By you staying calm you're sending your pets a signal that there's nothing to worry about and that they can relax too.

Keep Them Indoors

First things first—let’s keep our pets safe. Bring them indoors before the fireworks kick off. The last thing you want is for your dog to bolt down the street or your cat to vanish into the neighbour’s garden.

Once inside, make sure windows and doors are locked, blinds or curtains are drawn, and you’ve created a calm, quiet environment. Turn on the TV or radio to help drown out the bangs outside. Basically, make your home a cosy retreat.

Pet-Friendly Fireworks? Yes, They Exist

Not all fireworks are created equal. If you’re planning to set off some yourself, consider choosing "pet-friendly" quieter fireworks. These are designed to be less noisy and aren’t as likely to send your pet into full-on panic mode.

Don’t expect them to be silent, but they’re definitely a step down from the loud, explosive variety that makes your dog think the world is ending. Here's just a few of the best quiet fireworks we stock here at Epic Fireworks.

Halo

Approx Duration: 50 Sec
Noise Rating: 3/10
Epic Price: £5.94, RRP - £11.99

Silver Spirals

Approx Duration: 24 Sec
Noise Rating: 3/10
Epic Price: £9.96, RRP - £19.99

Silver Spirals

Approx Duration: 40 Sec
Noise Rating: 2/10
Epic Price: £19.98, RRP - £29.99 

Create a Safe Haven

Find a spot in your home where your pet can feel safe. Maybe it’s a quiet room, a closet, or even in your bed—wherever they seem to feel most comfortable. Throw in some blankets, their favourite toys, a well worn pair of your socks and a couple of treats. If you’re lucky, they’ll hide out in there until the fireworks stop, without even noticing what’s going on outside.

The Ultimate Checklist to Keep Pets Calm

For those extra-anxious pets (we’ve all met a few), here’s a checklist to get them through the night:

• Walk them before dark: Get your dog out for a good run before the fireworks start. This gives them a chance to burn off energy and do their business.
• A light meal works wonders: Feeding your pet before the fireworks can help reduce anxiety and prevent any accidents later.
• Bring small animals indoors: For pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, or hamsters, bring their cages inside and cover them with a blanket to muffle the noise. Add extra bedding so they can burrow and feel safe.
• Thundershirt or DIY bandage: You can buy a Thundershirt, which wraps snugly around your dog, or use a wide crepe bandage to apply gentle pressure to their body. This can help reduce anxiety.
• Talk to your vet: If you know your pet is going to struggle, ask your vet about products like Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) plug-ins. These can help create a calming environment.

Responsible Bonfire Building: Save the Hedgehogs, and More

If you’re building a bonfire, don’t forget about our wild animal friends. It’s not just pets that need protection during Bonfire Night. Hedgehogs, mice, rabbits, and even feral kittens are known to take shelter in woodpiles. Before lighting your bonfire, carefully check for any wildlife that might have taken up residence in there. You really don’t want to end the night with any unfortunate accidents.

Keep the Neighbours in the Loop

If you’re having a private fireworks display, let your neighbours know. It’s common courtesy, especially if they have pets. A little heads-up gives them time to bring their pets indoors or prepare their safe spaces, and it keeps you in their good books too.

More Pet Calming Tips and Products

By following the tips in this article, you can enjoy a spectacular fireworks display without stressing out your beloved pets. If you’re after more ideas to keep your pet calm during fireworks, don’t forget to check out our article The Best Tips & Products to Help Keep Your Pet Calm During Fireworks. There’s loads of handy info in there, from calming treats to specialised products.