Whether it is around November 5th or for a celebration event being held in the summer, fireworks can be difficult for many horses. Their natural response to loud noises and flashes is flight as they perceive it as danger, so fireworks can cause even calm animals to become anxious and stressed.
Here are some tips on how you can help your horse (and you!) stay calm on fireworks night.
Plan in Advance
As you approach fireworks night and the New Year, try to find out whether there are any planned fireworks display near your horse’s field or yard. Contacting your neighbours or checking local social media sites is a great place to start. Once you know the date and time of any fireworks being let off nearby, you can then get a plan in place to prepare for the event.
Most of the time, it is suggested to keep your horse in their familiar environment when fireworks are expected, however if your horse usually lives out in the field, you might want to consider bringing them into a stable for the duration of the event.
It is important that if you decide to do this, that you familiarise your horse with this in advance. A few weeks before the event, start adapting your horse’s routine by bringing them into the stable at the same time each day, with the same set up planned for the night of the fireworks event.
Keep them Calm
There are a number of ways to help keep your horse calm during a firework display. Playing soothing music can mask the sound of fireworks, especially if they are used to having a radio playing regularly on the yard. It is also best to leave lights on around the stable to lessen the effects of flashing fireworks.
A calming supplement may also benefit your horse. Some horse ‘calmers’ have a fairly instant effect, while others need to be fed over a period of time to have a noticeable effect.
Instant, paste-like calming supplements are given orally through a syringe into the back of your horse’s mouth. These calmers last for a few hours, so are a great short-term solution for one-off events.
NAF Instant Magic
A natural calmer with a difference. Exclusively trialled and proven, NAF Instant Magic is a five star formula that contains a unique combination of herbs and bio-available magnesium known to help maintain calm, support concentration and learning. It also does not contravene FEI rules and is safe for use in all horses.
Cavalor Take It Easy Forte
A quick-acting, extra-strong calming supplement in paste form. Cavalor Take It Easy Forte contains a high dose of L-tryptophan which stimulates the production of serotonin. It also contains magnesium, which helps to relax muscles.
If you know the date of a local fireworks display then you could consider feeding a calming supplement daily in the lead up to the event. Available in both powder and liquid forms, these calming supplements can take a few days to show their full effect, so you should always follow the brand’s feeding guidelines.
TopSpec Calmer
Formulated to reduce anxiety without affecting normal behaviour or reducing presence. TopSpec Calmer contains yeast, MOS, B vitamins, magnesium, tryptophan and sepiolite clay, which all act in different ways to help calm and relax responsive horses.
Science Supplements ProKalm
A unique formulation that acts rapidly in as little as 30 minutes with the effects lasting up to 8 hours. Science Supplements ProKalm can be fed just to ‘take the edge off,’ but also given in higher doses for more demanding situations.
Another way to tackle anxiety and stress caused by fireworks is to use a calming spray or diffuser. Depending on the brand and formula, calming sprays are applied either behind the ears or around the muzzle and chest areas, making them great for horses who won’t eat supplements. A diffuser can be secured in or near your horse’s stable to release a calming scent into their surroundings.
Keep them Occupied
Alongside plenty of forage, another way to keep your horse calm during a firework display is to give them some toys to play with. Not only do these take their focus off the fireworks, but they help to boost stimulation and engagement.
Horse Stable Toys
Made from tough fabrics with varying textures and fillings, horse toys from brands such as LeMieux and QHP provide a fun distraction for your horse.
Treat Balls
Perfect for use both in and out of the stable, treat balls can keep your horse or pony entertained for hours! Choose from various shapes and sizes – Stubbs and Red Gorilla are popular choices.
Remember, Remember…
- If your horse is easily startled, prone to distress caused by loud noises, or has had a negative response to fireworks previously, it is always recommended to seek guidance from your vet.
- Make sure your stable and/or field is safe and the surrounding boundary is secure, so if your horse does become spooked they cannot come to any harm.
- Ensure you have reviewed your fire procedures and that you have fire safety protocols in place. It is important that everyone on the yard knows what to do in the event of an emergency.
- Never put yourself in danger and try to remain calm yourself. It might be a good idea for you or someone experienced to stay at the yard during the event, however it is not advisable to enter a stable with a horse if they are spooked or anxious.
- If you do leave your horse in another person’s care, ensure they have clear instructions and up to date contact details for both yourself and your vet in case of any problems.
- Never risk riding when you think fireworks might be set off.
