Firework-Free Stays: A Calmer Bonfire Night for You and Your Dog
With millions of dogs distressed during firework season, Shacks offers a quiet countryside retreat to help pets – and their owners – find peace away from the noise.
Bonfire Night is a much-loved British tradition – dazzling displays, the smell of woodsmoke in the air and the sparkle of fireworks lighting up the sky. But for our four-legged friends, those bright bursts of light and sudden bangs can be terrifying.
Research from the The PDSA shows that 40% of dogs – around 3.6 million pets in the UK – are afraid of fireworks, with many showing signs of stress such as trembling, barking, hiding or even attempting to escape. The Kennel Club has also reported that the number of dogs going missing doubles during fireworks season, making this not just a stressful time but a serious animal welfare issue.
The Challenge: Tradition vs. Wellbeing
While fireworks are a cherished part of Bonfire Night celebrations, they come with a hidden cost. For dogs, fireworks are unexpected and overwhelming – loud, unpredictable explosions of sound and light they can’t understand.
Pros of fireworks:
- A way to bring communities together
- A tradition deeply rooted in British culture
- A memorable visual spectacle
Cons for dogs and their owners:
- Heightened stress, anxiety and fear
- Risk of dogs running away or injuring themselves while panicked
- Owners feeling helpless and stressed themselves
Many pet owners are left feeling torn, they don’t want to dampen the celebrations but they also don’t want their dog to suffer.
A Solution: Peaceful Escapes in Nature
For those looking for a way to truly get away from the chaos, Shacks offers wild luxury escapes tucked far from city streets and noisy neighbourhoods.
Staying in a Shack means:
- Fewer fireworks: Remote locations soften and scatter noise
- Natural white noise: The gentle rustle of leaves, owls calling, a crackling fire
- Room to roam: Long countryside walks that help dogs burn off nervous energy
- Cosy interiors: A safe den for pets and their people to relax together
“Our spaniel hates fireworks, so Bonfire Night is usually full of stress andsleepless nights. This year, we stayed at a Shack and it was transformative — she slept by the fire while we sat under the stars. It felt like we’d swapped chaos for calm.”
– Shacks guest, November 2024
Tips to Make the Most of Your Stay
Even with a quieter setting, preparation is key. Here’s how to help your dog feel safe:
- Pack familiar comforts – their bed, blanket, and favourite toy
- Create a cosy corner – soft lighting and treats work wonders
- Stick to routine – meals, walks and playtime help reduce stress
- Mask distant sounds – play soft, relaxing music
- Stay calm yourself – dogs mirror your mood
Animal Welfare Matters
As more people become aware of the impact of fireworks on animals, conversations are growing around creating safer celebrations. We’re aware of places that have started started using silent fireworks for public displays, offering a compromise between tradition and animal wellbeing.
“As a dog owner myself, I know how stressful Bonfire Night can be. A stay at Shacks offers reassurance – a quiet space where you and your dog can truly relax, surrounded by nature instead of noise.”
– Harry Tomkinson, Founder of Shacks
Packing List for a Peaceful Bonfire Night:
- Dog’s bed or blanket – comfort in a new place
- Chews and long-lasting treats – to keep them occupied
- Favourite toys – familiar and grounding
- Torch – for safe countryside walks
- Cosy layers – for you and your pup
