WE humans love to go to fireworks displays, enjoying the flashes of colour against the dark sky.

Our pets are a whole other story, and the noise of bangs and explosions can leave them feeling very stressed and anxious indeed.

With Bonfire Night approaching, MedicAnimal have compiled a list of tips for you to make the time a lot more pet friendly.

Top tips — dogs and cats

1) Always keep your cats and dogs inside on Bonfire Night. It’s important that they feel free to hide in a place they’re familiar with, so if they want to run off and hide behind the sofa or under the bed, let them.

2) Walk your dog early in the night, before it gets dark if possible to try to avoid any fireworks displays. Make sure to keep them on the lead so they don’t run off if they get scared.

3) Create a den for your pet using a cardboard box or puppy cage covered in some of their favourite blankets, which will block out the noise and flashing lights.

If you do this, get them used to sleeping in the den in the period coming up to Bonfire Night so that they find it a relaxing, safe space.

Don’t lock them in the cage, though — they should be able to escape if they want to.

4) Although it might be tempting to cuddle and fuss over your pet, this can reinforce their feelings of stress and fear.

Keep calm and try to distract them with a game or treats.

5) Dogs and cats are more likely to drink more when they’re stressed so make sure their water bowl is accessible and full.

Top tips — small animals

1) If your small pet usually lives outside, try to move their cage indoors or into a shed or garage.

2) Cover their cage with blankets to help block out the light and some of the sound.

3) Give your rabbit, hamster or guinea pig extra bedding so that they can burrow down and make a den which will help them feel safe as well as block out some of the sounds and flashing lights.

4) Try to distract your pet by hiding treats in their bedding to keep them occupied.

5) Never have your own fireworks display or bonfire near your pet — if you really want to do it, make sure that their hutch or cage is far enough away or that they are safe inside.

Pair of whippets play role in teaching children how to behave around dogs