Protecting animals during firework season

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Autumn events such as Halloween, Bonfire Night and Diwali are popular excuses to go out with a bang! Year after year, the explosions get bigger and the bangs louder.  

The private sale of fireworks is only permitted between 15 October and 10 November, on 26 to 31 December, and in the three days leading up to Diwali or Chinese New Year.

However, research suggests that 78%of the British public want fireworks banned entirely with 38% saying they support the ban due to fireworks scaring animals according to the Countryside Alliance.

Many want the government to take these concerns more seriously by including the protection of animals from the effects of fireworks in the Animal Welfare Act. In the meantime, organised events seem to be getting louder and longer – some seem to last all month - way beyond their allotted 31^st October and 5^th November.

Some households still go to town and host parties to out-ghoul or outshine their neighbours with costumes, fireworks, sparklers and fires to make them the talk of the street!

While these autumnal events may mean great fun and frivolity for families, for animals they can be the most distressing nights of the year.

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Animals and fireworks don’t mix.

Halloween, Diwali and Bonfire Night all present unique risks for equine businesses, dog walkers, breeders, kennels and catteries, as the heightened noise and activity levels during this period can cause distress for pets and even be the cause of animal fatalities.

While the loud whizzes and whistles of rockets and roman candles can be fun for families, fireworks displays can be traumatic for animals. Sadly, many suffer injuries as a result of stress, fright and burns. From tooth injuries caused by dogs chewing furniture to fractures in horses that have bolted.

According to the British Horse Society, there were 1,468 incidents involving horses and fireworks between 1st November 2010 and 19th March 2024. These include 49 horse fatalities, 317 horse injuries and 84 people injured during a situation involving horses and fireworks. Plus, according to the Cats Protection and PDSA, 64% of cat owners say that their pet expresses at least one sign of stress during fireworks and 41% of dog owners say their dog is afraid of fireworks - that’s over four million frightened dogs.

More dogs and cats are reported missing on Bonfire Night than on any other night of the year. Plus, the RSPCA reports around 400 calls a year on average about events involving fireworks.

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Big bangs can mean big problems for animal business.  

Here are some proactive measures animal business owners can take to mitigate risks and ensure the safety and wellbeing of the animals in their care and provide reassurance to anxious owners.

1. Soundproofing and calming measures: Fireworks and increased neighbourhood noise can cause severe anxiety in cats and dogs. Soundproofing facilities and playing calming music can help create a soothing environment. Additionally, using pheromone diffusers can reduce stress levels in animals.
2. Extra security precautions: The unusual sounds and unfamiliar lights can make pets more likely to try to escape. Double-checking locks and securing outdoor spaces can prevent escape attempts. Move animals indoors where possible and avoid walking dogs in the evening.
3. Staff preparedness: Ensure staff members are trained to recognise signs of anxiety in animals, such as excessive panting, pacing, or hiding. They should be equipped to intervene with comforting techniques or, where appropriate, administer owner or vet-approved calming treatments.
4. Clear communication with pet owners: Inform owners about the steps being taken to protect their pets during this period and encourage them to drop off comforting items (like blankets or toys). Transparent communication fosters trust and helps owners feel more confident in leaving their pets in your care.
5. Insurance coverage check: With the increased risk, it’s prudent to review insurance policies to confirm coverage in case of injury or other incidents, such as damage to property from panicked animals.

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