A veterinary clinic in Wythall is urging pet owners to take care with their animals in the lead up to Bonfire Night.

The clinic has issued tips for pet owners to keep pets happy, which includes a variety of different things, from taking dogs for an early walk to make sure they’re not still full of energy, and keeping the curtains closed to block out the bright lights from fireworks, to turning up the television or stereo to drown out the noise from fireworks, not fussing a pet that is already on edge, and distracting pets with stuffed toys and chews to take their mind off what’s going on outside.

Samantha Walsh, head of consulting at YourVets on Alcester Road is concerned that some pet owners might not be aware of how distressful the event can be for animals.

She said: “Bonfire season is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy impressive displays and spend time with family, however many owners don’t realise the stress fireworks can cause to their animals and so fail to understand how best to deal with the situation.

“It is important we educate people about how to handle their nervous pets, as often well-meaning owners can cause more apprehension by reacting incorrectly.”