Blue Cross, which has equine centres in Oxfordshire and Staffordshire, is appealing for horse owners to respond to a survey all about the impact of fireworks.

The charity said that with a national lockdown in place from the November 5, many people have chosen to host personal fireworks displays in their own gardens or private fields on bonfire night.

Blue Cross said it is concerned about the rising numbers of personal celebrations in the lead up to New Year’s Eve and the detrimental effect this can have on pets and horses, who may be fearful of the sights and sounds.

In order to gain more data as to any concern from within the equine community, Blue Cross is calling on horse and pony owners to fill in the survey by December 10.

Kerry Taylor, Education Manager at Blue Cross said: “In these changing times it is important to understand the existing concerns horse owners have around fireworks season and the impact these celebrations can have on their animals. Horses have a natural and innate flight response and we know some fare badly when local fireworks are set off and we are hoping to understand the national picture in greater detail.”

To access the survey, click HERE.