Fireworks

While bonfire night and firework displays are quite exciting for us, they can be quite terrifying for many animals, including equines.

All horses, ponies, donkeys and mules are flight animals which means they can be easily scared by the loud noises and bright lights of fireworks. This can result in unusual or erratic behaviour, making horses stressed and unpredictable. When horses are in flight mode they often panic and this is when injury to both horses and humans can occur.

We’ve put together an advice page to help you through this challenging time of year and to keep you and your equines safe.

Keeping your equines calm

All horses thrive on routine and any change in this can lead to anxiety and stress. By providing a safe, secure environment and keeping to the same management routine this can help reassure your equine during this period. Don’t assume that bringing the equine into a stable is safer, if they normally live out in a herd, they may feel safer than being split from the group and stabled.

Distractions such as food or music can help divert their attention away from the fireworks, studies have even shown that horses prefer classical and country music.

Your presence can also be calming for your equines, so staying with them throughout the night or even for the evening may help them settle down. If on a livery yard, create a rota to supervise the equines.

This is all dependent on your equine’s individual needs, what may work for some might not work for others. If you already know your equine reacts badly to fireworks, contact your vets to discuss options.

Desensitising

You can prepare your equines for fireworks by desensitising them. Slowly introduce them to similar lights and noises they might hear during firework displays, allowing them to adjust to the new experience at a pace that suits them.

Start the process in an environment where your equine typically feels safe. Play the noises at a low volume at first and once your equine is comfortable, gradually increase the sound levels. Do the same with flashing lights, making sure your equine is used to both experiences before combining the two.

If they are reacting well to the desensitisation, you can try the same process in a different space.

Planning for emergencies

Bonfire Night or firework displays could lead to a number of situations for you and your equine. Planning ahead ensures you are prepared should any of these arise.

Fire – Rogue fireworks or badly handled bonfires can cause fire to spread. Create an evacuation plan to ensure both horses and humans can safely escape a fire.
Escape – If your horse escapes, contact the police and obtain an incident number. Keep a recent photo and horse identification documents to hand for this purpose. Go to our Passports and Microchipping advice page for more information.
Injury – Equines may injure themselves when reacting to fireworks. Ensure your first aid kit and materials are fully stocked. Keep emergency vet details so they are easy to access.
Accident/damage – Most horse owners already have third party and liability insurance. It is advisable to purchase as it will protect you and your horse, should your equine cause an accident or damage to property of others. You can read more about this topic on our Equine Insurance advice page.

How to support the equine community

Attend organised events rather than creating your own display. If you’re planning to have a display, try to use low noise fireworks – those that create a visual effect but are quieter or produce no bang.
If you’re planning your own display, let any other local equine owners know what day and time you are hoping to hold your display so they can make preparations to settle their equines.
If you come across a horse in distress, it is not advisable to approach it. They can be unpredictable and could cause an accident or injuries. Wherever possible contact the owner and allow them to manage the situation. If a horse has escaped and is loose on the road, please contact the police for assistance.

You can download and print off our poster to help share this information across yards and the equine community.

External resources

The British Horse Society has an app where horse related incidents and accidents can be logged, including incidences with fireworks.

The RSPCA runs a firework campaign #BangOutOfOrder asking for changes to firework regulations. You can join them by contacting your local MP using their pre-written email. Discover their campaign here.

AFLR (Association for Firework Legislation Reform) is an organisation that gathers support from charities, organisations, groups, and individuals who are affected by the use of fireworks. You can visit their website and take action.

Remember we are here at Bransby Horses to support you with the health and welfare of your horse, if you require further information on any of the above or you would like to discuss your management plan please call 01427 787369 or email welfare@bransbyhorses.co.uk.