Fireworks can be fun. But pet owners are only too aware of the misery that the rockets and fire crackers of Bonfire Night, Diwali and other wintertime celebrations can cause for their cherished pets.
Terrified: dogs, cats, other pets, livestock and wildlife are often in complete fear for hours after a single firework
Which is why the RSPCA has made an urgent plea to the public to consider the impact of firework displays on animals, and to engage in conversations with neighbours about any planned celebrations.
The loud bangs, screeching noises and bright flashes cause terror for domestic and wild animals, each year bringing tales of tragedies as horses in stables, pet dogs or cats are seriously injured or killed as they panic in response to fireworks going off.
Polling conducted by the RSPCA shows that more than 6million households – more than 1-in-5 – in England and Wales plan to set off fireworks this season.
Organised firework displays can be planned for by pet owners. They are also often staged away from residential properties. It is random fireworks, which may be set off in back gardens or streets, without any notice, that most often cause distress for pets.
Carrie Stones, the RSPCA’s campaign manager, said: “Thousands of animals suffer every year due to fireworks, sometimes with devastating consequences.
The RSPCA is asking the public to sign their petition calling for a change in legislation.
The public can contact their Member of Parliament to advocate for stronger laws over the licensed sale of fireworks and to protect all animals — from pets and horses to livestock and wildlife. Many of the proposals are also supported by the London Fire Brigade and other emergency services.
The charity’s recommendations include:
- Reducing the noise level of all traditional fireworks from 120dB to 90dB
- Limiting the sale of consumer fireworks to Category F1 and F2, and only to specialised/licensed shops
- Designating “firework-free zones” in areas where fireworks are likely to have a greater impact on animals, the environment and vulnerable people
- Where firework-free zones are in place, councils would be encouraged to organise their own alternative displays instead
- Reviewing regulations surrounding alternatives to fireworks, such as drone displays, given their economic potential and benefits to wildlife and the environment
“We’re asking people to help us prevent this suffering and save lives by advocating for change,” the RSPCA’s Stones said.
“ People can take action by emailing your local council and MP to ask them to implement our recommendations.
“We want to see a restriction of fireworks sales to licensed venues only, and a limit to a set number of days when people can let off fireworks, enabling animal owners to plan ahead to protect their animals. We’d also like to see the noise level of fireworks reduced by manufacturers, clearly labelled on packaging, and include a warning that the fireworks may cause huge distress to animals.”
Read more: Dog trainer’s 10 top tips to keep pets calm during fireworks
Read more: Fire Brigade offers safety advice for fireworks on Bonfire Night
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