Fireworks, Livestock and Horses

In this blog, our MD and horse owner, Liz Hayman shares her views and shares some tips on coping with fireworks if your horses are stabled next to planned firework displays.

I think it'd be fair to say that mostly Fireworks and animals do not mix well. Over the years I have read about and have had personal experience of the devastation fireworks can cause, be it from ignorance, a don't care attitude or a deliberate attempt to injure or worse kill livestock and horses.

There have been many petitions sent to Government to try and alter legislation surrounding fireworks and animals but to date the Government has been disinclined to dramatically change legislation to provide more protection towards domestic animals and livestock. However, it is not all doom and gloom. There is legislation in place which goes a little way to help protect animals from the terror of fireworks but to my mind it most certainly does not go far enough.

The current legislation states:

Animal Welfare Act 2006

It is an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to cause any unnecessary suffering to any captive or domestic animal. Fireworks must not be set off near livestock or horses in fields, or close to buildings that house livestock. The offence carries a fine of up to £20,000 and/or a prison term of up to six months. The Act is enforced by local councils, animal health officers and the police.

I would like to point out that many officers in the police force are not au fait with this act. However, in the event you need to call and they are not aware of this legislation, please bring it to their attention verbally and via email. I would urge anyone who feels that their animals may be put at risk from fireworks to call 101 or your local police station before the weekend to talk through your concerns and if they are not already aware of this Act to make them aware. I have to say having already had to enlist the help of Thames Valley Police this year regarding fireworks they were fantastic and did attend.

Please share this legislation to create awareness and please be aware that the police will be very busy at this time of year so do everything you can to try and keep your animals safe.

Here are my tips to help your horses in the lead up to fireworks night.

1)         I find playing firework noises at low volume when feeding or grooming and gradually increasing the noise level over a few weeks while they stay calm and relaxed has had a positive effect on my horses over the years. You can find lots of firework videos on YouTube to play from your phone.

2)         If you know that there is a big fireworks display happening in your surrounding area, you can do some planning; bringing your horses in early from the field and settling them into the stable with a treat ball to help them focus on something else other than the noise and with the radio turned up can help some horses.

3)         If you know your horse gets really distressed, is there an option to stable him for a couple of nights away to get some rest? Alternatively, speak to your vet about possible sedation.

4)         Some horse owners prefer to keep their horses in their normal routine, be that in the stable or out in the field overnight. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual horse owner to decide what is best for their horse or pony.

From myself and all the team, we hope you and your animals stay safe over this fireworks period.