Sky launches BonfireNight TV channel to help pets stay calm during fireworks night

The new channel is designed to help our pets stay calm during the potentially stressful period that is fireworks night.

A new TV channel is set to launch to help our pets stay calm during the potentially stressful period that is fireworks night.

The channel will feature a range of soothing, funny and distracting movies curated for dogs to enjoy with their owners, and to ease the anxiety triggered by loud noises.

Called BonfireNight, the channel can be found on Sky channel 310 and will launch on November 1 at 6am, running until November 6 at 6am.

According to experts from Dogs Trust, feel-good, relaxing, and familiar content was a must-have, as it helps keep dogs’ owners calm, which in turn can help pooches relax too.

Films that promote laughter and general positivity were essential, while anything with negatively-associated emotions and intense content were ruled out.

The final list of 21 includes blockbuster titles such as Barbie and Anyone But You – as well as comedy classics David Brent: Life on the Road and Step Brothers, as well as classic, familiar, flicks like the iconic E.T., the Bridget Jones trilogy and Shrek 1.

Speaking about the new channel, Sky’s Director of Content Strategy & Performance, Jamie Morris said: “As a dog lover myself, I know all too well how stressful Bonfire Night can be. That's why we wanted to create something supportive to help dogs and their owners.

“Working with the experts at Dogs Trust and using their deep understanding of canine behaviour, we’ve delved into Sky Cinema’s extensive back catalogue of movie hits to ensure pets and owners alike get real comfort and support.”

Head of Canine Behaviour at Dogs Trust, Jenna Kiddie says: "Firework season can be particularly stressful for dogs as the loud bangs and flashes can cause fear and anxiety.

“Around half the UK’s dogs are affected by fireworks in some way, and fear can develop even in dogs who previously haven’t shown signs of distress.

“Dogs respond to fireworks in a range of different ways, so it’s crucial to have a clear plan ahead of time to help your own dog cope.”Get the biggest stories from across Bristol straight to your inbox.

How to keep your dog calm this Bonfire NightVeterinary surgeon and broadcaster, Dr Scott Miller, offered his top tips for keeping your dog calm during firework season.