The RSPCA calls on pet owners to remain vigilant during New Year's Eve celebrations

The UK’s largest animal welfare charity claims many animals can find fireworks deeply distressing, and the RSPCA is reminding the public of the many practical steps which can be taken to help protect their welfare.

The group has been running its #BangOutOfOrder campaign for many years and is calling on the government to urgently review fireworks laws.

Local authorities have also taken measures within their communities to mitigate the risk fireworks pose to animals.

Shelley Phillips, RSPCA campaigns manager, said: “We’d like to direct those who are worried about their pets to look at our guidance online so they can hopefully undertake some measures to keep their pets safe, and to ease their pets’ fear of loud noises.

“From making sure dogs and cats are indoors when fireworks are likely to be set off, to masking firework noises, and providing pets with a safe place to hide at all times, it's so important pet owners plan ahead.

“Small animals living outside should be provided with lots of extra bedding to allow for burrowing, whilst parts of their enclosure could be covered with a blanket to provide further sound-proofing and insulation.”

Horses, farm animals and wildlife can also be negatively affected by fireworks, the statement reads.

The charity continues to urge organisers of events to avoid letting off fireworks near where animals are kept.

Horse owners should check to see if there are going to be any firework displays in their area, and talk to the organisers – explaining there are horses nearby and asking them to set off their fireworks well away from their horses and aimed in the opposite direction.

The animal welfare charity is also urging people to use lower-noise fireworks which they said could make displays safer for everybody.