Bonfire Night can be an incredibly frightening and anxious time for pets and their owners, as many dogs struggle to cope with the loud bangs and flashes. The RSPCA has revealed that playing relaxing music to animals is the most popular way to calm pets when fireworks can be heard.
Which is why Classic FM has announced the return of Pet Classics, one of its best-loved, original programmes, to help keep stressed dogs and their owners calm this season. Now in its fifth year, Pet Classics is hosted by presenter and dog lover, Charlotte Hawkins, and will be broadcast on November 4, with a second programme on November 5.
By popular demand, both shows will be on air from 5pm, an hour earlier than last year, until 9pm.
Pet Classics will also feature dedications to listeners' pets and advice from the RSPCA for any owners looking to reassure their animals.
In honour of Pet Classics' original host, a special dedication and tribute to Bill Turnbull will be included as part of the programme this year.
Charlotte Hawkins said: "I am so thrilled to be hosting Pet Classics again this year, as it's such a special show.
"I've seen first-hand from my dog just how difficult a time it can be for pets during the fireworks, but it's amazing the difference relaxing music can have in helping to calm and soothe animals.
"We had such an overwhelming response to Pet Classics last year, it was so good seeing the impact the music made to pets up and down the country.
"We were sent photos of dogs, cats, birds, horses and even a chilled-out iguana… so I'm looking forward to people joining in again this year and sending me lots of photos of their calm pets."
RSPCA Chief Inspector Clare Dew said: "We know fireworks are a source of stress for animals each year, and that owners can really struggle with knowing what to do for the best.
"It's one of the reasons we are delighted to partner with Classic FM on their Pet Classics programmes, as studies show that calming music can be beneficial for some animals during this time.
"I'd suggest keeping your home as quiet as possible, shutting the curtains, creating a safe haven with blankets and a favourite toy for your pet, sticking the radio on and having a chill out evening.
"We'd also encourage people holding displays to be mindful of animals who live outside.
"My own rescue dog Frank struggles at this time of year and he finds it reassuring to know we are there at home with him, so that's where I'll be this year."
Pet Classics with Charlotte Hawkins will be broadcast on November 4 and 5 from 5pm to 9pm, on Classic FM - available across the UK on 100-102 FM, Global Player, DAB digital radio and TV, and at ClassicFM.com.
Do you have a dog story to share? Email nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
