Bonfire Night 2026: Expert pet safety advice from Dogs Trust and RSPCA as fireworks season begins

As Bonfire Night celebrations get underway across Leeds and West Yorkshire, animal welfare charities are reminding pet owners to take simple steps early to protect their animals from unnecessary distress.

Sudden loud explosions, high-pitched whistles, and bright flashes of light can cause severe stress and anxiety for dogs.

Beyond the immediate panic on the night, animal welfare experts warn that severe fear from fireworks can leave lasting behavioural and health scars.

Without early management, dogs can suffer from noise sensitisation, a condition where their phobia worsens year after year and expands to everyday sounds like thunder, construction work, or slamming doors.

Repeated exposure to acute stress can also lead to chronic anxiety, triggering persistent behavioural shifts such as heightened reactivity, separation distress, and appetite loss.

In older dogs or those with underlying conditions, prolonged surges of stress hormones like cortisol can also strain the immune system and cardiovascular health, making early intervention and calm home management essential for their long-term well-being.

To help owners navigate the festivities, welfare experts at Dogs Trust and the RSPCA have outlined essential advice for keeping pets comfortable and secure at home.

Adjusting routines and securing the home

Dogs Trust strongly recommends adjusting daily routines so dogs are walked strictly during daylight hours, well before dark, avoiding the times when fireworks are most likely to be set off in local neighbourhoods.

Once safely inside for the evening, ensure all doors, windows, and cat flaps are firmly closed to prevent a panicked animal from escaping if startled.

Owners should also double-check that garden boundaries are secure and that microchip contact details and collar tags are fully up to date in case a frightened dog slips out.

Creating a haven indoors

Both charities suggest setting up a dedicated, cosy den indoors where dogs can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.

Filling the area with familiar blankets, favourite toys, and an unwashed item of clothing carrying your scent will help create a reassuring environment.

Closing curtains and drawing blinds will block out sudden bursts of light, while turning on the television, playing radio broadcasts, or using specialised audio playlists can help mask the sound of explosions outside.

Remaining calm and offering reassurance

If your dog displays signs of anxiety, such as pacing, trembling, panting, or hiding, the RSPCA advises keeping your own posture and voice calm, as pets easily pick up on human tension.

Contrary to old misconceptions, comforting a frightened pet will not reinforce their fear. If your dog seeks reassurance, stroke them gently and speak in a quiet, settled tone.

Crucially, owners should never punish or scold an anxious dog for barking, whining, or hiding away.