Fireworks and Pets Campaign

We know that fireworks can cause suffering to many pets. And with plenty of councils axing their public firework events due to the cost of living crisis, we're concerned about a spike in private ‘at home’ displays putting the health of our pets at risk.

How do fireworks affect pets?

Many animals of all species find fireworks extremely distressing, and they can have severe impacts on their health and welfare.

The main problems for pet owners are the loud noises and unpredictability of firework displays, particularly private and at home events.

Dogs feel safe and secure when they can predict and control their environment, so when unexplained noises happen unexpectedly, this can be extremely stressful for them
Cats associate sudden loud noises and flashes of light with danger and an imminent threat to their physical safety, so their natural response is to flee the area quickly
As a prey species, horses are naturally fearful of loud noises. The sudden loud bangs and flashes of bright light, as well as the smell, can be very stressful.

During our ‘Have a heart: don’t take part’ campaign in 2022, we asked pet owners about the impact fireworks can have on their beloved companions.

Over half of respondents said that their pets shake when they hear fireworks nearby
Two in five pets are prone to panting while fireworks are going off
More than a quarter of pets have been known to bolt in reaction to firework bangs, putting them at risk of injury or going missing

What are we calling for?

When owners aren’t aware of firework displays, they are left unable to prepare and take steps to lessen the impact on their pets. We're urging everyone to consider pets during firework season. Here are things you can do to help.

Think carefully about whether you need any fireworks this year. Are there other ways you can enjoy the evening?
If you decide to purchase fireworks, always buy silent or low noise fireworks.
Always give your neighbours advance warning if you're planning on letting off fireworks in your garden at home. This will enable loving pet owners to prepare their much loved animals for the stressful noise levels, such as creating sound-dampening ‘dens’ for their pet to hide in (if they live indoors) and purchasing calming pheromone plug-ins.

What can the Government do?

Undertake a comprehensive review of all existing fireworks legislation in England and Wales. As part of this review, the Government should set up an expert working party to examine the impact of fireworks on animal health and welfare and propose comprehensive and practical solutions, such as firework control zones.
Reduce the maximum decibel level of fireworks intended for public sale from 120db to 90db. Fireworks should be labelled to include their decibel level so consumers can make an informed choice.
Introduce firework control zones in England and Wales – already existing in Scotland - particularly around specific locations such as animal shelters and hospitals, rehoming centres, kennels, catteries, horse stables, livery yards, or any area where horses are kept
Further restrict time periods when fireworks can be sold and used for private purposes
We would urge local authorities to consider stopping the use of category four fireworks in council-run displays