Horses are highly sensitive to fireworks, which can cause stress, anxiety, and dangerous flight responses due to loud noises, vibrations, flashes, and smoke. Around bonfire night, this poses significant challenges for horse owners, prompting calls from equestrians and celebrities for stricter firework laws. To help manage this stressful period, equine vet Charlotte Inness and the British Horse Society offer practical advice, including communicating with neighbors about firework plans, ensuring emergency procedures are in place, and deciding whether to stable horses or leave them in familiar environments away from displays.

Additional recommendations include staying with the horse during fireworks, providing constant access to forage to soothe them, considering sedation or natural calming supplements, and using distractions like music and stable lighting to reduce stress. Owners are advised to remain calm themselves, avoid riding or heavy exercise before fireworks, and ensure adequate insurance coverage in case a frightened horse escapes. These measures aim to keep horses safe and calm during a traditionally challenging time.