When we own and care for horses, it is ingrained in our training that flight is the equine primary defence mechanism. We know that when a horse feels threatened or perceives danger, running away is their instinctual reaction. So it’s especially frustrating when you spend the majority of your time caring for horses to ensure that they are healthy and happy, that a time that is supposed to be for celebration could potentially cause a great deal of harm.
 
That’s why we’ve compiled our list of practical, straightforward tips that all equine owners can put into place to increase the safety of everyone involved during this season.

Prepare for the long run

Don’t just prepare for the 5th of November. As we’ve mentioned, Bonfire night also signifies the start of winter celebrations that will inevitably involve fireworks. Therefore it’s imperative to monitor local and regional news for any large organised events. Also, remember to speak to your neighbours to find out if they are hosting any parties involving fireworks in their gardens. Once you have a list of potential events in your neighbourhood, have a word with your neighbours and the event organisers to inform or remind them that there are horses nearby. Be assertive but not confrontational. Tell them that they do not have to stop their celebrations altogether, but politely appeal that they at least ensure that their fireworks are set off in the opposite direction and within a good distance from your field and stable. If they are unreasonable, politely inform them of the Protection of Animals Act 1875 that states it is an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any domestic or captured animals. Keep in mind that there are strict laws that prevent fireworks from being lit after 11pm, however, this is extended to midnight on Bonfire Night itself.

Create a comforting and familiar environment

Keep calm and carry on with things as normal as possible. Wrapping your horses in cotton wool will only heighten their senses to something being wrong. Choose familiar environments that provide solace to your horses. If they are most comfortable turned out on the field, then carefully examine your fencing, troughs and gates for anything protruding that could cause injury. Safeguarding that there is no equipment that could cause injury also applies to horses that are more comfortable indoors. Ensure that their slow feeders are filled to keep them satisfied and distracted through the evening.
 
Any changes that you wish to implement to their surroundings should be carried out days or weeks in advance. For example, leaving the lights on in your stable can greatly reduce the effect of bright lights on your horses. As will closing the doors on your dutch barn.

Prepare for every eventuality

In extreme cases of flightiness with your horse, it is advised that you discuss any options for calmers or sedatives with your vet. There is a variety of medicines that can remedy all levels of jitteriness, so we have listed three of the most popular remedies, ranging in strength. Again, it is always recommended that these precautions are discussed with your vet ahead of time.

• Calmex: Non-prescription magnesium compound calmers.
• Sedalin (ACP): Prescription mild sedative, commonly used for clipping, that has great anxiety calming properties. This sedative must be taken 30 minutes to an hour
• Domosedan: Prescription sedative that is much stronger than Sedalin. It is much more expensive than the above options. We would highly recommend a clinical examination before taking this approach as Domosedan is known to cause cardiovascular problems if your horse is not in prime health.

 
No horse owner wants to think about it. However, if bonfire night causes your horse to bolt and escape from the field, you have to ensure that they are easily identifiable. Even if your horses are microchipped or freeze-marked, it is highly endorsed to attach ID tags with your contact details on to their rugs and/or headcollars.
ConclusionEven with all of the precautions that we have discussed, the best piece of advice we can give you is to (ironically) remain calm. Because your horses look to you for guidance and leadership, it is important to exude positivity so they do not suspect something is wrong.
 
No matter how immune you believe your horses to be to fireworks, it is best to keep a close eye on them this season to ensure they remain safe and respond to their actions appropriately.

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