Fireworks season can be a difficult time for horse owners, as the bright flashes, loud bangs, and unusual smells can be highly distressing for our equine friends. While Bonfire Night and other celebrations can bring joy to many, for horses, they often lead to anxiety, stress, and even injury if not managed carefully. Fortunately, there are several ways to help minimise the impact of fireworks on your horse and keep them safe and calm. Here are our top tips for handling this challenging period with ease.

1. Create a Calming Environment

The environment you provide your horse can make a significant difference in how they handle fireworks. Many horses feel safer inside their stable, where they are sheltered from the overwhelming sights and sounds. If your horse is normally stabled, it’s best to keep them there on nights when fireworks are expected.

Make sure their stable feels safe, with plenty of bedding so they can move around comfortably. Adding a radio in the stable can help muffle the noise outside, providing a steady background sound that masks the sudden, jarring bangs of fireworks. Choose a soothing station with no sudden shifts in volume, ideally something with calming music or a steady tone.

2. Consider Staying with Your Horse

If possible, stay with your horse during the busiest periods of the evening when fireworks are likely to be set off. Having a familiar presence nearby can reassure them and help them feel more secure. If you cannot stay with them, consider having a friend or family member who knows your horse well take your place.

Being there also gives you the chance to monitor their behaviour and provide immediate help if they appear distressed. It may even help to bring a book or a few things to keep you occupied, so you can stay close without making your horse anxious with excessive movement.

3. Feed Before Fireworks Start

A full stomach can help keep a horse calm and comfortable, so it’s wise to feed them before the fireworks start. A good meal in the evening, slightly earlier than usual, can keep their digestive system busy and help to distract them. However, avoid overfeeding, as sudden large amounts of food can lead to digestive problems.

Consider using treats or slow-feeder hay nets, which will keep them occupied over a more extended period. The repetitive chewing and gradual eating can have a soothing effect, offering a steady rhythm to help them focus on something other than the fireworks.

4. Use Calming Supplements if Needed

Some horses benefit from calming supplements, especially those known to be particularly skittish during fireworks. Supplements like magnesium or herbal remedies such as valerian root or chamomile can be given under veterinary guidance to reduce anxiety levels. Always speak with your vet before administering any new supplement, as each horse is unique, and some may react differently to various calming agents.

5. Prepare Early with Desensitisation Techniques

If fireworks are a recurring issue in your area, consider working with a professional trainer on desensitisation techniques long before fireworks season begins ready for next year. Desensitisation involves gradually exposing your horse to the sounds and sights of fireworks in a controlled environment, helping them develop a less reactive response.

For this year however, you might want to consider introducing some audio recordings of fireworks in the morning at a quiet level. Gradually introduced at low volumes and increased throughout the day, can help them grow accustomed to the sound.

However, ideally this should be a gradual process carried out over months and requires patience, as you want to make sure your horse to be as comfortable as possible before increasing the volume. That being said, if your horses hear them every year, introducing some fireworks noise in the morning from YouTube could help to lessen the shock that evening.

6. Check Security and Safety Measures

Before fireworks night, ensure that all gates, fences, and stable doors are secure. A stressed horse may try to escape, and a well-secured environment will reduce the risk of injury. Inspect for any hazards that could potentially harm them if they react suddenly or move frantically.

It’s also wise to ensure that their paddock is free from anything that could injure them if they were to gallop around. Remove any sharp or protruding objects, and make sure your fencing is sturdy.

7. Communicate with Neighbours and Fireworks Organisers

One of the simplest ways to help reduce stress for your horse is to communicate with those who may be setting off fireworks nearby. Many people are happy to accommodate if they know there are animals who may be affected. Politely ask your neighbours if they can give you a heads-up on when they plan to start or if they could consider quieter firework options.

If there are local organised events, see if they have designated timings, so you know when to expect the displays. Often, knowing the schedule can help you plan your approach and minimise your horse’s exposure to fireworks.

8. Stay Calm and Patient

Horses are highly perceptive animals and can pick up on your mood and stress levels. If you remain calm and patient, they’re more likely to feel secure. Speak to them gently, maintain a relaxed posture, and avoid making sudden movements that could inadvertently add to their anxiety. Patience is key, and your horse will appreciate your soothing presence.

9. Know When to Seek Professional Help

If your horse’s anxiety during fireworks is extreme and you’ve tried all the above methods, it may be time to consult a professional. A veterinarian can assess whether a short-term anti-anxiety medication is suitable for particularly anxious horses. In severe cases, it might be the safest option to protect their well-being.

Final Thoughts

Fireworks season can be challenging, but with some preparation, patience, and understanding, you can help your horse remain as calm and safe as possible. Each horse is different, so adapt these tips to suit your horse’s individual needs. By creating a safe, stable environment and being a calm, reassuring presence, you can help your horse get through fireworks season with far less stress and anxiety. Remember, their well-being is paramount, and your efforts to keep them calm won’t go unnoticed! rea