Is Classic FM doing music for pets again this year?

Classic FM’s Pet Classics returns for three evenings of soothing music this November, giving pet owners a calming soundtrack to help their cats and dogs cope with the noise and stress of fireworks season. For the first time, the annual event will run across three consecutive evenings, with five hours of specially selected music each night.

Now in its ninth year, Pet Classics runs from Thursday 5 November to Saturday 7 November, with Dan Walker, Aled Jones and Dawn O’Porter taking turns to present the programmes. Alongside relaxing classical favourites, listeners can hear a brand-new composition created specifically to help anxious pets feel calmer.

When does Pet Classics 2026 start?

Pet Classics begins on Thursday 5 November, with broadcasts running from 5pm to 10pm each evening.

Here is the full schedule:

• Thursday 5 November, 5pm–10pm: Dan Walker presents the Bonfire Night programme.
• Friday 6 November, 5pm–10pm: Aled Jones takes over for the second evening.
• Saturday 7 November, 5pm–10pm: Dawn O’Porter presents the final programme.

With five hours of music each night, owners can tune in as fireworks begin and keep the calming soundtrack playing throughout the evening.

How to listen to Pet Classics

There are several ways for fans and pet owners to enjoy Pet Classics throughout the three-night event.

• On Classic FM: Tune in to the radio station between 5pm and 10pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
• Online: Listen through the Classic FM website at ClassicFM.com.
• On Global Player: Stream the programmes through Global Player, Classic FM’s listening platform.

For further details about the broadcasts and listening options, visit ClassicFM.com or Global Player.

New calming music created for anxious pets

This year’s Pet Classics features a special new composition called When The Night Goes Quiet, written and recorded by composer Noah Inada-Kim, Classic FM’s Calm Ambassador.

The original piano piece has been created specifically to help anxious pets cope with fireworks. It follows research from the University of Belfast and the University of Glasgow suggesting that animals respond well to music with slower tempos, lower pitches and minimal percussion.

The composition has also been released on limited-edition zoetrope vinyl. The record features images of sleeping cats and dogs with fireworks exploding in the distance, creating a visual accompaniment to the music.

Inada-Kim hopes the new piece will offer comfort to pets and their owners during what can be a difficult time of year.

“Fireworks season can be incredibly loud and unpredictable,” he said, explaining the thinking behind the composition.

Which music will feature on Pet Classics?

The three programmes will include classical pieces chosen for their calming qualities, offering a peaceful alternative to the bangs and whistles of fireworks outside.

Among the featured works are Camille Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals: The Swan and Edward Elgar’s Mina, his final published orchestral work, named after his beloved Cairn Terrier.

The combination of familiar classical music and the new specially commissioned piece aims to create a relaxing atmosphere for animals and their owners throughout the fireworks season.

Classic FM partners with the RSPCA

Classic FM is once again working with the RSPCA to provide practical advice for owners whose pets struggle with fireworks.

Alongside the music, the broadcasts will share guidance on helping animals feel safe and comfortable during noisy celebrations. Owners can use the programmes as part of their efforts to create a quieter, more reassuring environment at home.

Joseph Zubier, Classic FM’s Managing Editor, said: “For many pets and their owners, the programme is an essential tool, offering a calming soundtrack and a relaxing sanctuary during the fireworks season.”

The expanded three-evening schedule gives listeners more opportunities to make Pet Classics part of their Bonfire Night routine, whether they are settling down with a nervous dog, helping a cat find a quiet spot or simply looking for a more peaceful atmosphere at home.

Pet Classics 2026 airs on Classic FM from Thursday 5 November to Saturday 7 November, 5pm–10pm each evening, with Dan Walker, Aled Jones and Dawn O’Porter presenting. Listen on Classic FM, ClassicFM.com or Global Player.

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