How we can help farmed animals this Bonfire Night
Most of us have a soft spot for Bonfire Night traditions: sparklers, a huge bonfire, a dazzling fireworks display - followed by a mug of something warm to keep out the cold.
But as much as we might enjoy it, fireworks season is not much fun for the many pets and farmed animals who are frightened by fireworks’ loud bangs and flashing lights.
A friend of mine told me that until recently he was planning to attend an organised fireworks display, but he’s decided not to go because his dogs are so terrified.
Increasing numbers of fireworks are being let off near his home each year, and his dogs are incredibly stressed by them. It’s so bad now he can’t leave his beloved dogs behind, not even with a trusted family member caring for them.
Bangs cause stress and fear
Sadly it’s a similar story for many farmed animals: cattle and sheep can run away in panic, injuring themselves on fences or farm equipment in the process - or even running onto busy roads, risking injury and death.
Please don’t watch it if you think you’ll find it upsetting, but the owner of a flock of sheep has shared this short CCTV video clip with us, showing the moment their sheep are scared by loud bangs and flashes from fireworks let off nearby.
This is just one of several similar clips recorded by the owner, with fireworks being let off over several days, including in daylight.
It’s not only cows and sheep that can be affected by fireworks: when hens and chickens are frightened, their instinct is to huddle together, with some birds potentially being smothered.
Livestock continue to be frightened in this way every fireworks season, despite it being illegal to light fireworks near fields and barns where animals are kept.
What can we do to help?
In an effort to help farmers, RSPCA Assured is encouraging them to alert their neighbours and the local community to the presence of animals on their land in the run-up to fireworks night, so keep an eye out for posters or messages near you.
Farmers on the RSPCA Assured scheme are also coming up with clever ways to help keep their animals calm, including playing classical music for limited periods.
Lucy, an RSPCA Assured pig farmer who plays music to her animals year-round, told me the low background music helps muffle any sudden noises - and the soothing sounds help keep them calm.
Plus, the RSPCA is encouraging everyone planning to have a firework display in their garden to consider their neighbours and warn them in advance - or, preferably, to attend organised events instead.
If you’d like more information about how fireworks affect animals and how you can help reduce the impact, you’ll find lots of extra tips on the RSPCA’s website.
I hope that if we all stop to think and follow the RSPCA’s advice, together we can make this year a much better Bonfire Night for all animals.
About the author
Helen Briggs - Communications Lead
Helen Briggs loves cooking and sharing good food with her friends and family. She cares about the environment and where food comes from, particularly when it comes to animal welfare.