PDSA calls for an end to private use of fireworks to protect pets

In response to the Government consultation on fireworks and pyrotechnics. The UK’s leading veterinary charity, PDSA welcomes the recognition of the impact fireworks can have on animals but is urging ministers to go further by restricting the private use of fireworks to professionally organised public displays only which operate under clear and robust licensing. 

Anna Ewers-Clark, PDSA Vet, said: 

“For many people, fireworks are a source of celebration, but for millions of pets they can cause genuine fear and anxiety. In some cases, pets try to escape and can injure themselves in the process, the impact this can have extends beyond bonfire night and can contribute to longer term noise sensitivities and behavioural problems. 

"The biggest challenge with privately used fireworks is their unpredictability. Owners can take steps to help prepare their pets, but it's much harder to protect a pet when fireworks can be set off unexpectedly, at any time and in residential areas.

“We can better protect our pets from avoidable distress by restricting the private use of louder fireworks to organised, licensed displays, which gives greater predictability. If displays are publicised in advance, pet owners have a better opportunity to adjust their routines and seek veterinary support where necessary.

"We would, however, support an exemption for firework products which present an extremely low hazard and negligible noise level, such as Christmas crackers, party poppers, and sparklers.

“We'd also like to see greater use of lower noise alternatives; which would help strike a balance between people enjoying celebrations and protecting the welfare of the millions of pets living in our communities.”

"Each year PDSA veterinary teams support pet owners with firework preparation advice and where clinically appropriate, prescribing medication to help manage severe distress in pets, this places additional pressure on both pet owners and our veterinary services. 

"We believe that reducing the unpredictable exposure to loud fireworks is a necessary and preventative approach that protects animal welfare, rather than placing the responsibility solely on individual pet owners to manage the consequences."