It’s Autumn which means fireworks are around the corner with bonfire night and New Year not far away.
Here are some top tips about how to help your horse out during the fireworks.
How do I prepare for fireworks?
The best strategy to a stress-free fireworks night is to have a plan. If you have local fireworks displays know when these are taking place. This will allow you to be prepared. If you do not know about any scheduled fireworks, then talking to neighbours or checking on social media may be a good starting point.
Check your horses’ environment is safe by removing anything (loose nails, foreign objects, temporary electric fencing) within the stable or pasture that could lead to injury should your horse get distressed. Make sure all fields are secured.
Sedatives can be given to some horses for fireworks if necessary. If this is something, you are considering then contact the vets early to ensure you have time for a visit or health check before the medication will be prescribed. Sedation needs to be given early enough to take effect prior to the fireworks (usually 45 minutes – 1hr before). Your vet can advise you about the specifics of the medication you are prescribed.
What should I do during the fireworks?
Wherever possible your horses’ routine should be kept consistent. That means if your horse is normally stabled, they should be kept in their stable and if they are normally in a paddock they should remain out with the same field/stable companions as normal. If you would like your horse stabled for fireworks but they are normally kept out this routine should be introduced over the weeks prior to expected fireworks.
If your horse is stabled these steps can help to make the environment less stressful:
- Play soothing music to mask the sound of fireworks (if they are used to radios in the stable).
- Keep stable lighting on to reduce the effect of flashing lights outside.
- Have lots of stable enrichment and food to distract your horse.
- If you are staying with your horse keep calm as your worry can make your horse more anxious.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Do NOT ride when anticipating fireworks as this could pose a risk to you and your horse.
The fireworks are over, now what?
After a firework event, check your horse over for any cuts or injuries. If you are concerned contact the vets. Make sure to check your horses’ paddock for any used fireworks.
Danielle Bowles BVMedSci (Hons) BVM BVS MRCVS
