Classic FM’s ‘Pet Classics’ returns to help soothe anxious pets during this year’s fireworks
A special radio programme is returning to Classic FM to help pets stay calm on Bonfire Night.
‘Pet Classics’ is set to return, offering a sonic sanctuary for our four-legged companions.
The beloved programme is entering its sixth year of providing a calming classical music experience to mitigate the stress caused fireworks.
Acknowledging that Bonfire Night can be a source of significant anxiety for pets, Classic FM has once again partnered with the RSPCA to curate two special broadcasts filled with peaceful melodies.
The shows will air on the eve of and on Bonfire Night itself, 4th and 5th November, starting from 5pm, aimed at offering comfort not only to pets but also to their owners.
This year’s edition is hosted by weekend presenter and dedicated dog-lover, Charlotte Hawkins, who is well-versed in the gentle touch needed to relax both pets and listeners alike.
The collaboration with the RSPCA also brings valuable insights, with the animal welfare organisation providing key tips on how to keep pets stress-free during the festivities.
The need for such an initiative is underscored by a 2022 RSPCA impact survey, which highlighted that an alarming 76 percent of dog owners observed distress in their pets due to fireworks.
The solution? Many have found solace in music, with the RSPCA noting that soothing tunes are a top method employed by pet owners to calm their animals.
Listeners are encouraged to engage with the programme by sharing pictures and videos of their pets enjoying the classical pieces on social media using the hashtag #PetClassics.
In previous years, the response has been overwhelming, with images of relaxed dogs, cats, rabbits, and even an iguana gracing the internet, showing the positive impact of the show.
Presenter Charlotte Hawkins said: “It’s an honour to host Classic FM’s Pet Classics again this year. It is such a special and heart-warming programme, with the most wonderful community of listeners.”
“We know the positive effects that classical music has on humans and pets alike, especially during stressful and challenging times, so I have the perfect selection of calming music lined up to settle and soothe even the most anxious listener.
“Everyone is welcome to my radio sanctuary – from the furry to the feathered – and I look forward to all the photos and videos of pets chilling out with me and enjoying the music.”
Classic FM does not stop at the scheduled programmes. A specially created playlist of tranquil classical music is also available for free on the Global Player, providing a year-round source of comfort for pets in need.
As we approach Bonfire Night, Classic FM and the RSPCA urge pet owners to prepare in advance, ensuring their furry and feathered friends can find solace in the beauty of classical music during potentially stressful times.
When the fireworks start
- Walk your dog during daylight hours to avoid times when fireworks are likely to be set off.
- Move your dog to the safe haven each evening before the fireworks begin. Provide toys and other things that they enjoy in the safe haven.
- Make sure there are things for you to do too, so your dog isn’t left alone.
- Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound of fireworks. Blackout your doggy safe haven, so they can’t see any flashes outside.
- Put on some music or TV to mask the firework sounds.
- Ignore the firework noises yourself. Play with a toy to see if your dog wants to join in, but don’t force them to play.
How to help cats who are afraid of fireworks
- Provide hiding places in your home .e.g. under furniture or a quiet corner.
- Don’t stress your cat by trying to tempt them out. Leave them until they’re ready.
- Keeping them in to avoid them becoming stressed.
- Microchip your cats in case they’re startled and escape outside.
How to help small animals during fireworks
- Partly cover outside cages and pens with blankets so it’s soundproofed and hidden, leaving an area for animals to look out.
- Provide bedding for small animals to burrow in.
- Consider bringing them indoors – this will need to be done gradually, so plan ahead.
Keeping horses safe during fireworks
It’s not just the animals in your home that can be scared of fireworks – horses can be too. If you’re a horse owner:
- Know in advance – check to see if there are going to be any firework displays in your area.
- Talk to the organisers – where possible, explain there are horses nearby and ask them to set off their fireworks in the opposite direction.
- Get advice from the British Horse Society (BHS) – for top tips on keeping your horse safe and secure during the firework season
