Bonfire Night tips for Cumbrian pet owners from WCF Pet & Equestrian

The loud flashes and bangs from fireworks can cause 'high anxiety and distress' for pets.

Scarlett Betts, an in-house pet specialist at WCF Pet & Equestrian, which has five stores across Cumbria, said that taking measures well before Bonfire Night could help reduce the impact on pets.

Ms Betts said: "Fireworks don’t just go off on Bonfire Night, they can happen at any time in the days and weeks before and after November 5.

"The unexpected booms and bright flashes from fireworks can trigger the fight or flight response in pets because they perceive it as a threat, so it’s best to be prepared so you can minimise their distress.

"It’s important to create a calming, safe environment for your dog, and that you are close at hand to provide reassurance and comfort if they need it."

Ms Betts has shared her top Bonfire Night tips for pet owners.

These include staying indoors with windows, curtains, and blinds shut, creating a safe, den-like space for the dog, and having their favourite toys at hand for comfort.

She also recommends drowning out the noise outside by playing classical music, using a dog coat or thunder blanket for comfort, having a supply of treats ready to keep them distracted, using a plug-in diffuser which releases calming pheromones, and administering calming supplements at least 30 minutes before any noise or flashes.

WCF Pet & Equestrian has stores across Cumbria (Image: WCF Pet & Equestrian) Ms Betts, who is the business development manager at WCF Pet & Equestrian and has nearly a decade’s experience working in the veterinary industry, said: "I have two dogs of my own and while one of them isn’t affected by fireworks, the other finds them really distressing.

"Our firework season routine includes taking him for a walk earlier than normal so he’s had his exercise and the opportunity to go to the toilet before any fireworks go off.

"We then give him his tea and settle in for the night so he feels cosy and secure at home.

"If your dog is severely affected by fireworks despite the measures you put in place, then it’s always best to speak to your vet for advice."

Ms Betts also highlighted that it isn't just dogs that are affected by fireworks, with small animals, cats, and horses also impacted.

She said: "Simple steps such as keeping cats indoors or moving a small animal cage away from a window can help protect them."

WCF Pet & Equestrian has eight stores across the North of England and south-west Scotland, including in Penrith, Ulverston, Cockermouth, Carlisle, and Wigton.

The stores offer a range of products and advice for pet owners and the rural community, with a selection of its own brand products also available online and via Amazon.

WCF Pet & Equestrian is part of the Cumbrian-based WCF family of businesses which operates across the UK in the retail, leisure, and logistics sectors.

WCF was founded in Whitehaven in 1911 and has its headquarters in Brampton, near Carlisle.