Whizzes and bangs frighten horses (From Worcester News)

Whizzes and bangs frighten horses

3:22pm Monday 31st October 2011 in Equestrian By Sara Pawsey

ALEADING equine charity has been forced to publish a hardhitting poster to educate the public about the dangers of fireworks.

The British Horse Society says that fireworks and horses can be a lethal cocktail and people are not generally aware that horses have a ‘flight’ mentality.

Sheila Hardy, senior executive in the BHS safety department, said: “Horses are flight animals and are likely to become stressed by loud bangs and sudden lights in the sky.

“The flight response will kick in and horses may run through or jump fences to escape the perceived danger. This may result in serious injury to the horse itself but may also create a public safety issue on roads with a loose horse in flight.

“We are asking members of the public to be a little more considerate and inform people with horses nearby if they are going to let off fireworks.

“We have issued two posters this month – one aimed at horse owners to ensure that they follow certain steps and one for the general public.”

Mrs Hardy said she hopes that people will report incidents this year so that the British Horse Society can assess the effect that November 5 celebrations have on horses and ponies.

The second poster is an emergency checklist in a bid to warn horse owners about the danger of fireworks.

The society hopes that by reading the checklist owners will warn others who are planning to let off fireworks about the damage they can cause.

The checklist suggests owners look at local press and shop notice boards to find out where organised displays will be in their area.

It’s a good idea to listen to the local radio too, as it will be advertising celebration venues.

Decide whether to stable your horse or leave it in the field. If you know your animal will be stressed talk to your vet about sedation, or perhaps consider moving your horse for the night although it is often best to keep the horse in its normal routine so as not to stress it unnecessarily. If your horse is stabled check thoroughly for anything that could cause potential injury, such as protruding nails and string.

If your horse is to stay in its field check that fencing is not broken and that there are no foreign objects lying around.

Some horses will be soothed by a radio playing calming music.

Be aware of your own safety, too. A startled horse can be dangerous.

Check if there is to be a bonfire near your yard. If there is then make sure you have an emergency fire procedure in place. If you have any doubts, talk to your local fire safety officer.

Most people don’t realise how much suffering fireworks cause animals, particularly horses.

It is important you have adequate third party liability insurance. If your horse is frightened and escapes causing an accident, then you could be held liable for compensation.

By being proactive in planning for fireworks and bonfire night you can make the annual celebration less stressful to you and your horse.

Å To download either, or both of the British Horse Society posters log on to horseaccidents.org.uk and look under fireworks.