Fireworks can be a source of significant stress for horses, as their acute senses and flight response make them highly sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights, and sudden movements. This can lead to to dangerous behaviour that puts them at risk of injury or worse.
How to keep horses safe during fireworks
It is essential for horse owners and caretakers to take proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with fireworks and ensure the safety and wellbeing of their animals.
Here are the British Horse Society's top tips for keeping your horses safe during firework season:
- Try to keep your horse in their normal routine where possible to minimise any stress.
- Be proactive and warn local organisers, schools and neighbours that there are horses in the area. Ask that they inform you of timings for the fireworks being set off so you can prepare — at any time of year as fireworks often get set off during birthdays and New Year celebrations.
- You could also play music in their stable to dull the sound of the bangs — this would need to be introduced prior to the night so they can adjust to it.
- Leave the stable or barn lights on — it could help to lessen the effect of bright lights and flashes. However, if your horse is in a well-ventilated barn, close the main doors to limit the effects of the fireworks.
- Remember to remain calm and positive as horses will sense your unease. For those of you who are unable to be with your horse, perhaps organise a rota covering a few nights and discuss and agree a strategy with your yard owner and fellow liveries so that everyone has support.
It's not just horses that will react to fireworks. Here's some advice on how to keep your dogs safe as well as other pets.