Overview
- On Wednesday, November 4, 2026 experts advised owners to prepare ahead of Bonfire Night by bringing pets indoors, securing gardens and creating a calm indoor ‘den’ before darkness falls.
- Watch for clear signs of distress such as clinginess, hiding, whining or barking, trembling, panting, drooling, loss of appetite and attempts to escape.
- Simple home changes can help: move seating away from windows, rearrange furniture to form an enclosed corner, close heavier curtains or blinds and keep pets’ beds, toys and water within easy reach.
- Use background noise like music or TV to mask bangs and, for dogs with marked fear, consult a vet who may offer short-term medication or refer to a behaviour specialist for longer-term support.
- A Dogs Trust survey shows around one in three owners seek advice about fireworks, so planning ahead will cut risk of injury, reduce calls on emergency vets and help pets recover more quickly after the season ends.