Fireworks and animals are a bad mix, says Lyth activist
An animal rights activist, professional model and stable owner from Lyth wants to raise awareness of how pets and countryside creatures are affected by fireworks.
With many people in Caithness having their own displays instead of going to a public event this year, Natalie Oag says that apart from keeping cats and dogs safe we should also spare a thought for horses and farm animals.
Natalie, who is Peta (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) representative for the Highlands, said: "Remember, remember the 5th of November and keep your pets safe this Guy Fawkes Night.
"Those planning to set off fireworks at their homes, should consider talking to their neighbours so that those with pets, horses and livestock can have plenty notice to plan accordingly."
She said that fireworks are a major issue for many animals due to their heightened sense of hearing with loud bangs and whistles causing some to feel "pain, stress and fright".
"The noise and unpredictability of fireworks can be perceived as a threat, triggering a fight-or-flight response. For example, the dog may bark or run away.

"The good news is, there are plenty of ways to minimise the impact fireworks have on animals."
Natalie set out a don't list for pet owners this Guy Fawkes Night:
- Don’t take your pets to a display.
- Don’t let fireworks off near animals, that includes horses and farm animals too.
- Don’t leave your pets in a car.
- Don’t leave your pets alone.
- Don’t punish your pet for barking or being stressed as this will make the situation worse.
- Don’t leave animals tethered or chained up outside. They can hang themselves as they try and leap over a fence while trying to run away from the noise.
Her top tips for looking after cats and dogs while fireworks are going off include keeping your pet safe and secure inside your home so they will not see the flashes and the bangs will be muffled. She advises to close all doors and windows and draw the curtains or blinds.
"Turn up the volume on the radio and TV to help drown out the loud bangs. Classical music is good for this. Stay home with your pet – having someone they trust will help keep the stress levels down make them feel calmer.
"Make sure your dog or cat has somewhere comfortable to hide such as an igloo, box or crate or somewhere they feel safe to retreat. Create hiding places around your house – your pet will then have somewhere to hide if they want too."
Natalie says it is a good idea to walk dogs in daylight hours to avoid fireworks as much as possible "plus a tired dog is likely to be more relaxed come evening time".
She also said that vets can also prescribe medication to help alleviate anxiety in cats and dogs.
"Horses and farm animals can get very spooked by fireworks and there are measures you can take to help keep them safe."
- Try and stable horses if possible. Check all boundary lines and gates are closed to avoid any injuries or accidents.
- If your horse/animal is usually kept in a stable/indoors make sure all haynets are secured so they can’t get caught in them and check the space is free from anything that could harm them.
- Don’t risk riding your horse where there is a chance that fireworks can be set off.
- Contact any local display organisers and ask them to set them off as far away as possible from your horse or animals and at least in the opposite direction.
"Don’t forget about the small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs or chickens. Have them tucked away or, better still, take them inside for the night."
She says that fireworks that explode closer to the ground and don't make loud bangs or screeches can now be sourced from retailers.
"They are less stressful to animals while allowing everyone to still have fun."
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