MANY of us enjoy Bonfire Night, but please remember that animals don't and can become terrified when fireworks are let off.

They have excellent hearing and loud bangs and whistles can cause them pain and distress, resulting in panic, running away or getting lost.

As responsible pet owners we need to keep our pets safe, which means keeping them indoors whenever there are fireworks being let off.

Close all the curtains and turn on the radio or television. Never shout at your pet if it is frightened as you will only make it more stressed.

Ignore your pet if it paces round or whines -- reassurance will only make it think there is really something to worry about.

Stay calm and happy yourself and praise your pet when it is calm.

Rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets also need special care.

These animals are easily frightened and may die of a heart attack when fireworks are set off. Hutches and enclosures should be brought into a cool, quiet room indoors or into a shed or garage.

If it is not possible to bring a hutch inside, turn it round so it faces a wall or fence and cover it with a thick blanket, but please make sure there is enough ventilation.

Mrs J Harwood,

Moor Park Avenue,

Bispham.