Getting ready for fireworks season

Across mainstream and social media, we’re raising awareness of the devastating impact fireworks can have on animals including acute anxiety, panic-related accidents and physical injury. 

We’re explaining the signs of distress owners need to look out for - from the more obvious, such as panting, drooling or attempts to escape in dogs, to the more subtle like restlessness, hiding, toileting in the house, rabbits thumping or freezing, and poultry huddling in a fear response. 

We’re also encouraging clients to prepare now by speaking to their vet where an animal is likely to be significantly distressed and highlighting that by working closely with vet teams, longer-term management of noise phobias can be successful.

What we’ve been saying:

• Speak to a vet early about treatment options for fireworks-related distress, including desensitisation, pheromone products or medication where appropriate.
• Create a safe, well-padded den or hiding place before fireworks begin.
• Check pets are microchipped and that contact details are up to date.
• Bring small pets indoors, close windows and curtains, and use background noise to help mask fireworks.
• Keep calm if an animal is distressed and avoid punishment for stress-related behaviour.
• Keep livestock safe when fireworks are likely locally and remove firework debris from grazing areas.
• Check bonfires for wildlife before lighting them and dispose of firework debris responsibly.
  
  

Current controls on the sale and use of fireworks do not go far enough to protect animal welfare. Behind the scenes we're working with the Fireworks Impact coalition to call for stricter regulation. The coalition will raise awareness amongst politicians and decision makers at an event in the Houses of Parliament on 4 November 2026, highlighting the impact of fireworks on both people and animals and making the case for stronger controls.

Read more in BVA’s policy position on fireworks and animal welfare: https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/fireworks-and-animal-welfare/