01/11/2022
Tips for fireworks this November.…
Don’t alter your horse’s routine on the day of a fireworks display as this in itself can be stressful. If you do plan to stable him during firework displays, and he is currently living out, then start bringing him in a week or so ahead of the display to get him used to it. You don’t have to keep him in for the entire night, just for a few hours covering either side of when the firework displays will be on. Set-up the stable exactly as you would on the night of the fireworks display.
If the horse is better out in the field then make sure that he can clearly see the fence line, panicking horses can run through fencing. Make regular checks on the horse.
Fire safety
Although the likelihood of a rogue firework causing a stable fire is low, it is every owner’s worst nightmare and being prepared for the event of a stable fire could save lives. Make sure you have fire extinguishers, sand and water nearby in case of a fire around the stables. If you keep your horse at livery familiarise yourself with the fire drills – make sure you know where you should go with your horse – and encourage other liveries to do the same.
On the night
Remain calm
As an owner your mood and stress levels will have a direct impact on your horse, so it is important that you don’t get angry or upset in front of your horse if neighbours nearby have a display that you weren’t expecting. Try to remain calm and hopefully your horse will too. However, remember your own safety is paramount so do not try to handle your horse if he is acting in a dangerous or unpredictable manner. Limit the risks to him by ensuring there are no sharp or protruding objects near him but keep yourself at a safe distance and out of harm’s way.
Use distractions
Give your horse plenty of hay/haylage to keep him occupied, even if he is in a field. If stabled, put a radio on to mask the noise of the fireworks, but make sure that the radio is positioned safely so it cannot be accessed by the horse.
Keep lights on to disguise sudden bright lights.
Check your horse regularly during the evening to make sure he is ok. If you can, it’s often a good idea to stay with them because your presence may have a calming effect. Make a night of it; you could bring a flask and picnic to the stables and do some of those jobs you keep putting off, like giving your tack a deep clean. If you are on a livery yard, encourage other owners to do the same.
If you know your horse can become extremely distressed then please call us to discuss calmers/ sedation or consider moving your horse for the night.
Do not ride whilst fireworks are being set off.
The morning after
Check your horse for cuts or injuries
The day after a display it is important that you just carry on with your horse’s normal routine but do check your horse thoroughly for any cuts or injuries just in case he has over-reached or run into something.
Check your field for any stray fireworks which might have landed there
Fully inspect the entire field and water trough to make sure there is no debris left in the field which could injure your horse or wildlife, or contaminate the area.
Info provided by the World Horse welfare, Andrew Melling vets Ltd and poster credit AAEP.
