Protect your pets from firework fear

With bonfire night fast approaching, spare a thought for the family pet which may not be longing for the seasonal firework festivities quite as much as you, warns RIAS.

Every year in Britain, hundreds of pets suffer unnecessarily from the effects of Guy Fawkes Night and injuries can range from fear and stress to actual physical harm. As well as the pain and distress experienced by the pet, says RIAS, owners who don't take precautions can often find themselves having to dig deep to pay the vet's bill.

Having adequate insurance cover helps, such as the pet plan offered by RIAS, and this will help offset any financial strain. However, avoiding problems to begin with is by far the best approach.

"Fireworks can be very scary for pets, large and small," says RIAS Managing Director Janet Connor, "and it's easy to get carried away with the excitement of the festivities and forget that our cats, dogs and other animals are more vulnerable than we are. But there are some very straightforward things people can do when there are bonfires and fireworks about," says RIAS Managing Director Janet Connor. "and we strongly recommend pet owners take heed of the advice of specialist organisations like the RSPCA and the PDSA in order to minimise the risk to their pets."

Make sure your pet is in a safe environment, and that it cannot escape if frightened by a loud noise

Play some music or put on the television to drown out the explosions and bangs

Exercise your dog before it gets dark, and make sure it is wearing a secure collar and lead at all times

Never force your pet along to a fireworks display

Don't leave a pet alone in the house when fireworks are going off nearby

Have the name and address of a vet on hand in case of emergency

Make sure you're covered by adequate insurance - many companies such as RIAS offer pet insurance which will help offset any financial strain caused by accident or injury.