Classic FM returns with its show of soothing music to help anxious pets this Bonfire night

Classic FM has announced the return of Pet Classics, a programme of soothing music to help keep anxious pets calm and relaxed this fireworks seasons. 

It will be hosted for a second year by GMB‘s and Classic FM’s weekend presenter Charlotte Hawkins, 47, who will be joined in the studio by her dog Frank. 

The show will also honour Bill Turnbull, who hosted the show for three years, with a special tribute following his death from prostate cancer earlier this year aged 66. 

Back again: Classic FM have announced the return of Pet Classics, a programme of soothing music to help keep anxious pets calm and relaxed this fireworks season (host Charlotte Hawkins pictured with her dog Frank)

The news comes as an RSPCA survey reveals that playing relaxing music to animals is the most popular way people calm their pets when fireworks can be heard.

For a fifth consecutive year Classic FM is teaming up with the RSPCA to create the programmes and curate the music. 

Pet Classics will also feature dedications to listeners’ pets and advice from the RSPCA for any owners looking to reassure their animals. 

Recently, a survey by the RSPCA revealed that two-thirds of animal owners reported that their pet was distressed during fireworks season and playing relaxing music was the most common way to help relax or prepare their animal. 

RIP: The show will also honour its original host, Bill Turnbull, with a special tribute following his death from cancer earlier this year aged 66 (pictured in 2021)  

Many kennels and rehoming centres use the power of classical music to decrease stress levels amongst their animals.

Charlotte said: ‘I am so thrilled to be hosting Pet Classics again this year, as it’s such a special show. 

‘I’ve seen first-hand from my dog just how difficult a time it can be for pets during the fireworks, but it’s amazing the difference relaxing music can have in helping to calm and soothe animals.’ 

‘We had such an overwhelming response to Pet Classics last year, it was so good seeing the impact the music made to pets up and down the country. 

Proud owner: Charlotte said: ‘I am so thrilled to be hosting Pet Classics again this year, as it’s such a special show. I’ve seen first-hand from my dog just how difficult a time it can be for pets’

‘We were sent photos of dogs, cats, birds, horses and even a chilled-out iguana… so I’m looking forward to people joining in again this year and sending me lots of photos of their calm pets!’

RSPCA Chief Inspector Clare Dew said: ‘We know fireworks are a source of stress for animals each year, and that owners can really struggle with knowing what to do for the best. 

‘It’s one of the reasons we are delighted to partner with Classic FM on their Pet Classics programmes, as studies show that calming music can be beneficial for some animals during this time’. 

‘I’d suggest keeping your home as quiet as possible, shutting the curtains, creating a safe haven with blankets and a favourite toy for your pet, sticking the radio on and having a chill out evening’.

Pet Classic will be broadcast on Friday November 4 and November 5 from 5pm – 9pm.  

Can’t wait: Pet Classics will be broadcast on Friday November 4 and November 5 from 5pm – 9pm