Tips from Jarden Vets to Keep Them Calm and Safe This November

Firework Night is a brilliant community tradition here in Olney. But while many of us look forward to it, our animal companions often feel very differently. Loud bangs, sudden flashes of light, and strange smells can be frightening, even for the calmest of companions.

With Olney Firework Night taking place on Sunday 2nd November 2025, now is the perfect time to start preparing. A little forward planning can make a huge difference to how relaxed your companion will feel on the night, and help you both enjoy a stress-free evening.

Start Preparing Early

If your companion is nervous around loud noises, early preparation is key.

• Play firework sounds quietly at home in the weeks leading up to Bonfire Night. Start at a very low volume while doing something they enjoy, such as mealtime or gentle play, and gradually increase the volume over time. This helps desensitise them to the sounds.
• Create positive associations. Every time they hear a bang or crackle, offer a treat or praise to build reassurance rather than fear.
• Check your companion’s microchip details are up to date, just in case they manage to escape if they’re frightened. (If you’re unsure how to check, we can help at Jarden Vets.)

Create a Safe Haven Indoors

Even the most confident companions can be startled by fireworks, so it helps to have a quiet, cosy space ready:

• Choose a familiar area of your home where your companion feels most relaxed, perhaps a corner of the living room or a snug under the stairs.
• Build a den using blankets, cushions, or a crate with the door left open. Add some of their favourite toys and bedding so it smells reassuringly familiar.
• Close windows, doors, and curtains to block out noise and flashing lights.
• Play soft background sounds such as gentle music, a calming playlist, or even the TV, to help mask firework noises.

For cats, make sure they can hide where they feel comfortable. For example under a bed, behind furniture, or in a cupboard. Never try to pull them out; they’ll emerge when they feel safe again.

Keep Routine and Reassurance

Try to stick to your usual routine on the day. Feed, walk, and play with your companion at the same times as normal so they sense that everything is okay.

• Walk dogs early, before it gets dark. Aim for before 5pm to avoid the start of local displays.
• Keep cats indoors from late afternoon onwards, with litter trays available for the evening.
• Stay calm yourself. Companions are very good at picking up on our emotions. If you’re relaxed, they’re more likely to be as well.
• If your companion seeks comfort, reassure them gently. It’s a myth that this “rewards” fear. You’re simply letting them know they’re safe.

Consider Calming Products 

If your companion struggles with loud noises every year, it may help to use calming aids in advance. These can include:

• Pheromone diffusers or sprays – designed to mimic natural chemical signals by containing synthetic versions of pheromones. 
• Nutritional supplements or natural remedies. Speak to us for advice on what’s safe and effective. 
• Prescription medication. To be used for severe anxiety. We can discuss short-term options to help your companion stay calm and comfortable.

On the Night Itself

When the fireworks begin:

• Keep all doors, windows, and cat flaps securely closed.
• Stay at home with your companion if possible.
• Draw curtains and switch on lights to reduce flashes from outside.
• Keep them distracted with a chew, puzzle toy, or playtime if they’re up for it.
• If you’re having friends round to your house, remind them not to make any sudden loud noises or open doors unexpectedly.

For small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, or birds, bring hutches indoors or cover them with thick blankets to muffle sound, ensuring there’s still ventilation.

The Morning After

Before letting your companion out the next morning, check your garden for leftover fireworks or debris that could be harmful to them. It’s also worth keeping dogs on the lead for early walks in case any fireworks are still lying around.

Give your companion lots of praise and affection for getting through the night, and maybe a quiet, calm day to recover.

Don’t leave it to the last minute, please be prepared

Firework Night is a highlight for many families in Olney; it usually lasts for around 10-15 minutes. However, it can be a real challenge for our animal companions. By preparing early, creating a safe space, and taking a few extra precautions, you can make the evening much less stressful for everyone.

If you’re worried about how your companion might cope this year, or you’d like to discuss calming options, please get in touch with the team at Jarden Vets. We’re here to help you plan ahead, so your companion can feel safe, settled, and loved. 

Call us on 01234 746325 or email us at hello@jardenvets.co.uk.