Keeping animals safe this season.
Fireworks are a much loved part of seasonal celebrations; Bonfire Night, New Year, and Weddings all light up the sky with colour and noise. For many animals, though, those bright bursts can bring confusion, panic, and even danger.
Why fireworks cause fear
Sudden, unpredictable sounds and flashes can trigger deep fear in animals. Research shows that almost half of all dogs show signs of distress during firework displays, whereas cats often hide so their fear can be harder to notice. Horses, being natural flight animals, are easily startled, when frightened they may bolt or crash into fencing or stable walls.
Wildlife is also affected; birds take flight en masse during displays, sometimes abandoning nests whilst debris that falls to the ground can harm grazing animals and other species long after the noise has stopped.
The scale of the problem
Animal welfare charities receive hundreds of calls about fireworks every year, most of which occur between October and January. While figures vary, the pattern is clear – fireworks can cause real harm if used without care.
How to help your animals cope
Preparation makes a big difference. Talk to your vet well before fireworks season if your pet struggles with noise. They can recommend safe ways to reduce stress and build confidence over time.
On the night itself:
- Keep dogs and cats indoors with windows closed and curtains drawn.
- Keep them in a familiar environment, with companions and routine unchanged.
- Play calm music or leave the television on to mask loud sounds.
- Create a quiet, cosy space where pets can choose to hide.
- For small animals outside, add extra bedding and cover part of hutches to muffle noise while maintaining air flow.
- For horses, check fencing and remove hazards if they stay in the field. If stabled, secure hay nets so they can’t get caught.
- Stay nearby if displays are planned and keep your own safety in mind.
Visit the RSPCA website for more advice on how to keep animals safe:
RSPCA – advice & welfare.
A kinder way forward
Public support is growing for quieter and more considerate celebrations. Limiting the sale and use of fireworks to set dates, reducing maximum noise levels, and requiring notice for public events.
With a little thought and planning, we can keep the sparkle in our celebrations and help animals stay safe too.
