Classic FM to play calming music for anxious pets during bonfire night

Classic FM will be broadcasting two programmes to help pets stay calm and relaxed.

First launching in 2018, Classic FM's Pet Classics has gone on to become one of the station's most popular programmes every year.

Classic FM has once again partnered up with the RSPCA for this year's programmes, which will be hosted by Charlotte Hawkins on November 2 and Dan Walker on November 5.

Both shows will run from 5pm until 9pm.

Each show features a specially curated playlist of the most soothing classical music to calm any nervous pet or anxious owner.

Many of the music choices and composers are connected with animals such as Camille Saint-Saens’ Carnival of the Animals: The Swan; Elgar’s Mina, his last work which he named after his Cairn Terrier, and Mozart’s Piano Concerto No.17. Mozart owned a pet starling whose song features in the concerto.

Classic FM presenter Charlotte Hawkins said: “It’s always an absolute joy to host Classic FM’s Pet Classics, and to welcome everyone – snuggly or scaley – to our radio oasis. It’s one of my favourite shows of the year to present.

"We know that classical music has a positive effect on humans and pets alike, and it’s fantastic to see that in action, through the thousands of photos and videos we receive of listeners’ pets relaxing and dozing off. In fact, it’s the one programme where I want my audience to go to sleep with the radio on!”

Classic FM Breakfast host Dan Walker said: “I am looking forward to joining Charlotte and the Pet Classics team this year. I love classical music and I love animals so what more could you want?

"Our dog Winnie is a cockapoo and I know that fireworks can be a problem for thousands of pets and animals. We created Pet Classics to provide a sanctuary, filled with the most relaxing music, when fireworks can be at their loudest. If, like me, you’re new to Pet Classics, come and join us, and bring your pets!”

In the build-up to the programmes and during the broadcasts themselves, Classic FM will share practical advice and key tips from the RSPCA to help listeners prepare their pets.

Full information will be available at Global Player and ClassicFM.com.

In addition to Pet Classics, the leading animal charity has launched its new #BeAKindSpark campaign, encouraging people to make one positive change to help animals this fireworks season.

Carrie Stones, Campaign Manager at the RSPCA, said: “We are thrilled to partner once again with Classic FM to help pet owners everywhere soothe their pets during fireworks season. Many animals and their owners find fireworks very hard to cope with, which is why we’re calling on the nation to remember their neighbours – including pets, wildlife and farmed animals - this Guy Fawkes Night."

Classic FM’s Pet Classics is broadcast on Saturday 2^nd November, 5pm to 9pm, hosted by Charlotte Hawkins, with a second programme on Tuesday 5^th November, 5pm to 9pm, hosted by Dan Walker.

Classic FM is available across the UK on Global Player – the official Classic FM app – on your smart speaker, iOS or Android device, and on 100-102 FM, DAB+ digital radio and TV and at ClassicFM.com.