Fireworks - New Government Consultation

Have you and your dogs/animals been affected by Fireworks?

This Consultation is open until 7th October 2026 and can be responded to here: Fireworks and pyrotechnics in the UK - GOV.UK

The Consultation description is as below:

Introduction
Fireworks are enjoyed by many for celebrations and cultural events. However, their use has become a growing concern, as seen from public complaints, parliamentary debates, and petitions calling for stronger controls due to the negative impacts on neighbourhood safety, vulnerable people, and animals.
This consultation explores these issues, in support of the UK Government’s Safer Streets Mission to tackle anti-social behaviour. The goal is to find an approach that preserves the enjoyment of fireworks for celebrations while preventing harm and distress to others.

Why are we consulting

Before making any changes to fireworks regulations, we are seeking views on our proposals to ensure we receive all relevant evidence and perspectives. This will allow us to refine the policy to reduce unintended consequences and maximise the potential benefits. We are seeking views on proposals to:

• restrict the availability of noisier fireworks to the general public, with louder products only available to professional users.

• add products deemed to be carrying unacceptable risks to the list of existing banned pyrotechnic products set out in regulation 33 of the Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015 (as amended).

• review the regulations for fireworks and pyrotechnic products currently classified as lower risk to better reflect the different levels of risk they pose.

Fireworks Parliamentary Debate

The petitions committee scheduled a Westminster Hall debate for Monday 19 January at 4:30pm and MPs have now debated two petitions relating to the sale of fireworks.

You can read a transcript of the debate here:

http://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2026-01-19/debates/C0AE7A79-B8C1-4E33-8CB7-A9AAD98B62E6/SaleOfFireworks

The debate can be watched online here: 

https://www.youtube.com/live/G1ntVoBByDE

The first petition:

"Reduce the maximum noise level for consumer fireworks from 120 to 90 decibels"

The petition, which has received more than 179,000 signatures, states: "We think each year, individuals suffer because of loud fireworks. We believe horses, dogs, cats, livestock and wildlife can be terrified by noisy fireworks and many people find them intolerable."

Open for Signatures: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/738192

Second Petition:

"Limit the sale of fireworks to those running local council approved events only"

The petition, which has received more than 191,000 signatures, states: "Ban the sale of fireworks to the general public to minimise the harm caused to vulnerable people and animals. Defenceless animals can die from the distress caused by fireworks. I believe that permitting unregulated use of fireworks is an act of wide-scale cruelty to animals."

Open for Signatures: Limit the sale of fireworks to those running local council approved events only - Petitions

Fireworks - Early Day Motion

Reference is EDM 2128 27th October 2025

In regards to Fireworks anti-social behaviour and regulation, it has so far been supported by 26 MP's 

Motion text is as follows:

That this House notes with deep concern the growing impact of fireworks misuse on communities across the UK; recognises that the unpredictable use of high-decibel fireworks causes significant distress to animals, wildlife, and those with sensory sensitivities or neurodiverse conditions; further notes that local councils and police forces lack sufficient powers and resources to manage the increasing volume of complaints from residents; highlights that current firework legislation, much of it dating back to the early 2000s, has failed to keep pace with modern technology and changing patterns of use; acknowledges the calls of animal welfare charities including the RSPCA and Dogs Trust for a reduction in permitted decibel levels, stronger licensing of retailers, and a crackdown on unlicensed pop-up sellers during festive periods such as Bonfire Night; welcomes public campaigns that have highlighted widespread public frustration; and therefore urges the Government to bring forward comprehensive reform of firework regulation to ensure fireworks are used safely, sold responsibly, and enjoyed without causing harm to people, animals, and communities.

Updates: https://edm.parliament.uk/early-day-motion/64560

To support the EDM - contact your own member of parliament and ask them to add their signature.

www.writetothem.com 

Classic FM Radio - Fireworks Season

Help to give your pets some calm this fireworks season returns again this year.

For pets and owners who find fireworks stressful, Pet Classics can provide a audio sanctuary during the bright lights, whizzes and bangs. Tune in for two shows of perfectly picked, relaxing music, and practical tips from the RSPCA.

The first programme will be on Bonfire Night - the 5th of November from 5pm to 9pm.

The 2nd programme will be on Saturday 8th of November also from 5pm to 9pm.

Fireworks Bill – to restrict fireworks:

The next stage for this Bill, Second reading, is scheduled to take place on Friday 17 January 2025.

This is a Private Members' Bill which was presented to Parliament on Wednesday 16 October 2024 through the ballot procedure.

Luton North MP, Sarah Owen is hoping to ban the loudest fireworks from public sale, and ensure fireworks can only be purchased from licensed shops.

Legislation could be put in place to help reduce stress to animals.

Kirith Entwistle MP said:

This week I met up with Sarah Owen MP to talk about her private members bill on fireworks.

The Fireworks Bill proposes an outright ban on the public sale of F2 and F3 fireworks. Looks to reduce the maximum decibel level of all traditional fireworks from 120 dB to 90 dB. Enhances legislation governing the use and sale of fireworks and tightens licensing laws on the sale of fireworks.

This is a really difficult time of year for many pet owners. We have just seen another fireworks season come and go and as we head towards the New Year, more displays will cause distress for so many animals.

Constant disturbance from fireworks night after night can be an issue for others in our community too. We have a large community of veterans in Bolton, many of whom struggle with PTSD, and there are children and adults who are neurodivergent who are unsettled by the unexpected loud noises.

I’m pleased to show my support for this Bill and I will be doing my bit to encourage the Government to back the introduction of tighter restrictions on fireworks.

Fireworks Petition

The Government Petition circulating has now been closed due to there being a General Election in December. A government response was given on the 5th November 2019 and can be read in full on the petitions website.
Petition that have more than 100,000 signatures are considered for debate in the new Parliament and are now waiting for a new petitions committee after the General Election.

The petition gained over 305,000 signatures calling for a ban on fireworks for general sale to the public and reads:

Every year more and more people, animals and wildlife get hurt by fireworks. It’s time something was fine to stop this. There are enough organised firework groups around for us to still enjoy fireworks safely so please help me stop the needless sale of them to the public!

The noise from fireworks causes a great amount of fear, stress and anxiety in wild animals. ... Errant fireworks can also cause environmental damage though fires, and from the release of poisonous chemicals and particle-laden smoke, which is not just inhaled by wildlife, but contaminates the natural environment.
In England last year, 4,436 individuals attended A&E because of an injury caused by a firework - more than double the 2,141 in 2009/10.
With around 40% of the UKs dogs being scared.

This petition closed early because of a General ElectionFind out more on the Petitions Committee website

UK Parliament Petition - Fireworks

The UK Government Petition (currently open) asks to change the laws governing the use of fireworks to include a ban on public use:

UK Government Petition can be found here it runs for six months closing on the 6th April 2018.

"Fireworks cause alarm, distress and anxiety to many people and animals. We call on the Secretary of State to make appropriate provision to secure that the risk of public use is the MINIMUM that is compatible with fireworks being used, as stated in Fireworks Act 2003 sect 2."

As the petition has gained over 100k signatures, the Government has issued the following written response below and debated the issue in Parliament on the 29th January 2018:

The fireworks parliamentary debate can be found here.

Government Response:
Government takes the issue of firework safety very seriously. There is legislation in place that controls the sale, use and misuse of fireworks; we have no plans to extend this further.

The Government takes the issue of firework safety very seriously. There is legislation in place relating to the supply, storage, possession and use and misuse of fireworks. This includes legislation which regulates the supply and use of fireworks, both for the general public and professional display operators. Restrictions on the sale and use of fireworks are set out under the 2003 Fireworks Act, the Fireworks Regulations 2004 and the Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015. These contain provisions to minimise the risk of fireworks harming people, property and animals. Although a small minority of people use fireworks in a dangerous, inconsiderate or anti-social manner, we believe that the majority use them sensibly and responsibly.

The Government is aware of concerns about the distress noisy fireworks can cause to individuals, as well as to livestock, pets and wildlife. Therefore, the Government urges those using fireworks to be considerate to their neighbours and give sufficient notice of firework use, particularly to those who are vulnerable such as older people, children, those with mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and those with pets and livestock. We have worked with the fireworks industry to encourage users of fireworks to give notice of their displays so that those who are vulnerable or keep animals can make arrangements for their safety.

The Blue Cross animal charity has also produced information on animals and fireworks, which gives advice on how to avoid or reduce stress to animals when fireworks are being set off. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) and the Kennel Club provide similar advice on their websites concerning how to minimise the impact of fireworks use on animals.
There is already a ban on the general public from purchasing fireworks with higher levels of risk and noise and seasonal limitations on their sale. The Fireworks Regulations 2004 restrict their sale to the traditional fireworks periods around 5th November, Diwali, New Year’s Eve and the Chinese New Year. These are an important part of British tradition reflecting our history and multi-culturalism. While it is possible to buy fireworks at other times of the year, a ‘licence to sell fireworks’ is required and strict conditions are imposed outside the traditional periods.

At present any firework that exceeds 120 decibels must not be supplied to consumers. There are also low noise fireworks available that consumers can choose to buy, but we do not propose to bring in regulations to require all fireworks to be low noise.

Government acknowledges that many people have genuine concerns about the use and, the misuse, of fireworks and the risks of firework-related injury. However, the number of injuries is low and the total number of hospital admissions caused by firework injuries has remained below 200 a year for the last 10 years.

The Government does not plan to make any changes to the way statistics relating to enforcement actions are collected. The Government believes the focus of enforcement should be on delivering necessary protections and on working with businesses, citizens and others to ensure safety.

The Government believes that the current regulations strike the right balance between the enjoyment of fireworks by the public and restricting the sale and use of fireworks for public safety reasons.

The best way to continue to reduce the distress caused by fireworks is to work with industry, retailers and others to promote the safe and responsible use of fireworks through guidance and public education and to ensure that appropriate action is taken against those that break the rules.

The obligations for the Secretary of State referred to in the e-petition, to publish a regulatory Impact Assessment and to consult interested organisations, only apply when making new regulations and we have no plans to change the legislation relating to fireworks.

As set out above, given there is already legislation in place which controls the sale and use and misuse of fireworks; we have no plans to extend this further.

Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy

Our Christmas Advice

Seasonal Tips For Dog Owners:

 

Christmas and the New Year is a time of joy and cheer for us and our families and is also often a time of stress, rushing about and pulling your hair out!
Here are some handy tips for you to help maintain your sanity and keep you and your dog happy and safe over the festive season.

Your Christmas Tree & Decorations:

Once a year we fill our rooms up with trees, dangling objects, lights and even hang food around in odd places. We know what is going on, but our dogs probably just think we have gone a bit nuts in the nicest of ways!

Electrics: Make sure you keep your tree lights and any other electrical decorations safely out of your dogs reach-especially if your dog is inclined to investigate or chew through exposed electrical cord. Electrocution can easily be caused.

Trees: If you have a real tree, the needles which fall daily can become stuck in your dog’s paws and are also dangerous if eaten, vacuum daily and keep your dog (and other animals) away from them. Don't let your dog drink the tree water. Some dogs like to mark out against them (why else did human bring a tree indoors but to save going out in the cold?) so bear that in mind too!

Tree Decor: From a dogs point of view – the Christmas tree with its dangling goodies is pretty tempting and begging to be investigated, trees can easily topple over especially once weighed down with decorations and lights etc so try to secure the tree down so it does not fall over so easily if bumped into by your dog (or wagging tail). Trees do tend to look better by the window rather than being worn round the house by your enthusiatic dog!

Dogs can easily be caught up in tinsel and find hanging decorations particularly appealing and ripe for pulling off. Life will be a lot easier and safer if you limit your dog’s access to the area if you need to and don’t leave tree and dog unattended!

Plants: Many Christmas plants including Mistletoe, Holly, Pot Pourrie and Poinsettias are toxic, keep them out of your dogs reach and seek immediate veterinary advice if you think your pet has ingested.

 

Decorations: Those which are edible (or not when they are ten years old) to humans, e.g. hanging chocolate tree decorations may be sniffed out by your dog with his amazing nose detection capabilities, so keep these away. Chocolate is just pure poison to your dogs system, tinsel, tin foil, cling film etc can also be dangerous if swallowed and cause serious internal problems. Fairy lights look lovely, problems can arise when dogs get tangled up in any loose wires left lying around.
Spray snow - the type in the cans, is attractive on the insides of your windows, check you dog isn't interested in licking/scratching it off, chemicals=poisons.

Blu-tack and similar adhesives may cause drooling, vomiting and/or diarrhoea if eaten by your dog. Silica gel found in packaging can have the same affect-contact your vet for advice.

Plastic bags and balloons are also a hazard-keep them away from your dog.

Candles: If you like to use candles-do place where your dog, e.g. your dogs waggy tail, will not accidentally knock over.

Christmas Presents:

Your goodies: Many dogs will be intrigued by the sudden appearance of wrapped boxes and who could blame them, so if you don’t want yours unwrapped by Santa’s little helper, keep them boxes hidden!

Wrappings, trimmings etc can be very dangerous if chewed or swallowed, so keep safely away when not in use & bin after.

Doggie presents: Make sure your dogs own Christmas present(s) are ’dog proof’ – suitable for your dog, robust enough and safe for use.

Christmas Day can in some households seem like a day gone mad from a dog's view, then there is the excitement of the present opening, the paper, the noise, all those socks too!

If you have more than one dog and are giving out a present to each dog bear in mind how each dog is going to react with their new possession around the other dogs, sharing might be right out the window to begin with. Give your dogs space and maintain control - it's not like you 're too busy right? You are after all supermum and superdad - dogs need your help too.

Festive Food, more food, did I mention there's more food and treats:

Some of the foods we love to fill up on over Christmas are actually toxic for our dogs.

It can be a tough job to keep a watch on your dog even with the extra set of eyes you have developed in the back of your head, but you'll need to be one step ahead.

Cooked foods left on top of the oven are very tempting to your dog and many a time the whole lot has been reached and knocked back in one or two gulps; bones, trimmings, stuffing the lot-this can lead to an expensive out-of-hours veterinary visit or if you are lucky it will pass though and you will need one hell of a shovel or plastic bag out in the garden on Boxing Day, plus you've missed your lunch so watch out.

Diet - We often get carried away with extra festive treats and unusual foods this time of year, it’s nice to include our dogs and treat them too – but don’t forget that a sudden intake of unusual foods, or too much of anything is likely to cause diarrhoea and/or vomiting, so watch out for how much and what exactly your dog is being offered - keep an eye on any guests sneaking in the treats too, or Fido will end up with an upset tummy and it could be a messy and uncomfortable Christmas!

Chocolate -  is a definite NO! It contains a chemical called Theobromine which is actually poisonous to dogs and even just a small amount can be lethal for some. Chocolate poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures and death. If you want to treat your dog – buy treats designed for dogs, our rescue dogs loves to chew on a carrot or apple, keep them safe and keep them healthy. If you suspect chocolate poisoning – contact a vet immediately.

Sweetcorn -  isn’t digested and corn on the cob is very dangerous, cobs can easily cause an obstruction which will require surgery to remove if it doesn’t kill your dog. If you have corn on the cob-dispose of the cobs where your dog can’t reach and never ever feed to your dog.

Bones - you may have more cooked meats around and your dog is sure to have spotted exactly where all his goodies are! Bones can be dangerous, cooked ones becoming brittle and easily breaking into sharp pieces which can choke a dog, don’t give anything you wouldn’t usually.

Coffee – alcohol – sweets - yummy for us but NO NO NO for our canine friends. Give your dog a nice Christmas and keep well away.

Grapes, raisins and sultanas should not be fed to your dog, these are now known to be toxic to dogs and can cause poisoning. Cases of kidney failure have been documented. Other foods such as liquorice, avocados, onions and some nuts can also cause problems.

A poisons leaflet produced by the British Veterinary Association is available online here.


Fun, parties & visitors over the holidays:

Some dogs will enjoy extra people around, for some it can be very stressful-just because you are enjoying 'festive fun' it, doesn't mean your dog must too.

If you’re hosting a party/get together: Some dogs will becomeoverexcited or frightened when around unusual noises such as children toys, balloons popping, party bangers, flashing lights etc and intoxicated visitors can also cause a dog to feel uneasy - being grabbed, cuddled and told your a good boy over and over by auntie who has hit the sherry early is not a dog's idea of a fun day out, so plan in advance to help keep your best friend relaxed.

If your dog is known not to cope well with these types of situations, or you haven't owned your dog long enough to find out, don't take chances, be ready with your dog's 'retreat area':

Make sure your dog(s) has a retreat somewhere familiar where he can go and relax away from all the noise and excitement if he needs too or you need to put him somewhere safe, for example a room upstairs or a dog crate somewhere familiar and quiet. This is especially important if you are likely to become putting it bluntly - drunk and not much use to your dog. Provide some favourite chews, or a stuffed Kong to help keep him occupied,where he likes to be, leave the radio/TV on to help block out some noise, make sure he has the remote control handy too but don’t let him on the karaoke! Exercise in advance to help him settle down whilst you get on enjoying yourself!

Try plugging in a DAP diffuser two weeks before your busiest week and keep it plugged in over the Xmas to help relax your dog if needed.

Extra guests: Many households will receive extra guests, relatives and often young children, so bear in mind that if your dog isn’t used to the extra attention, noise etc, have a quiet retreat as mentioned above. If your dog is happy mixing (not the cocktails hopefully) - keep an eye out for him becoming too excited and step in if that is the case.

Ground Rules: When your family and friends arrive, try laying down some house rules - ask your guests not to overfeed your dog or leave food and alcohol on the floor to help keep party food and drinks out of reach to your dog. But remember, when the booze is flowing, rules are out the window so be prepared in advance, you don't want to end up trying to pull a trapped object out of your dog's throat after he's just found himself a plateful under the chair.

Children: Letting off steam at Christmas is all part of the fun, they are off school, enjoying themselves, excited and often charging about. Parents are knackered, stressed out and tired. It's at times like this when dogs can be let down unintentionally and placed in awkward situations.

Please do not leave children and dogs alone attended-always make sure children and dogs are supervised by a competent adult at all times. If it is too much for your dog - just remove your dog from the situation, be vigilant and prevent accidents.
Exercise: Try your best to keep your dogs normal routine as much as possible – getting away from the washing up with the excuse of walking the dog does come in handy!

Fireworks are often used over the holiday season, especially on New Years Eve, read up on our firework advice here.

Extra people in and out increases the risk of your dog being let out of your home by mistake; always make sure doors are closed and that you know where your dog is - safely inside. Each year dogs go missing during the holiday period - is your dog wearing a collar and Id tag, is your dog identi-chipped?

Pain killers and human drugs for hangovers etc often get left lying around and these packets can be of interest to your dog, if you think your dog has swallowed-contact you vet.

Travelling: If you are visiting and taking your dog with you – don’t forget to pack his bag too! Check in advance that your dog is welcome, exercise beforehand to help him settle down when you get there, take a bit of his bedding, water bowl, own food, toy etc.

Record your vets number somewhere safe, just in case, be careful and give your dog a big hug from us this Xmas!

 

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year to you all and your dogs!

 

Copyright © 2012 Endangered Dogs Defence and Rescue Ltd

Fireworks and Dogs - Advice

Safety Tips I Dogs & Fireworks Survival I Long-term Action I Fireworks & the Law

Every year many dogs (and other animals) will be affected as a direct result of fireworks. Fireworks legislation exists but for many the fireworks are still extremely loud and the mayhem seems to start earlier and earlier each year, depending on where you live, with Nov. 5th as the 'main event' there are also other celebrations involving fireworks such as Diwali, Chinese New Year and increased popularity in some areas around Christmas and New Year.

For many of us, there isn’t just one evening of Fireworks, sounding like World War III to cope with, but a whole run up of weeks leading to it which doesn’t end with the loudest blitz on Bonfire Night.

Here we have collated some information regarding the safety of your dog, coping suggestions to help get you through it, long term treatment and current legislation.

Safety tips for you and your dog(s):

Around this time there will be a steep increase in the number of stray dogs picked up and handed in, dogs which have become scared and bolted when out and off leash or having escaped from the home, here follows a few tips to help you and your dog: Please check the following today: Collar & ID Tag: Your dog needs to be wearing an ID tag or a collar with Identification clearly inscribed on it (this is a legal requirement) - check it can be read - can you actually see what it says? The information on it needs to be up to date and securely attached to your dog’s collar. Make sure your dog’s collar is in good condition and fits properly. Microchip: Is you dog micro-chipped? If not now would be a good time to get that done. It’s a simple painless procedure that your vet can do and is relatively cheap – it will make all the difference if you lose your dog. If your dog is already chipped check that you have the number to call should the worst happen. Also make sure your contact details are up to date. Bonfire night is coming and for many dogs it’s terrifying. You may think your dog is bombproof but maybe, this time something will surprise him and he may bolt. If the details on his tag are wrong, or if in the panic he loses his collar, your chances of being reunited with your pet are greatly reduced.

Keep your dog inside the house with you during the worst times, check your garden fencing – is it secure? Does the gate(s) lock?

Don’t leave your dog out in the garden unattended or leave your dog tied up outside the shop or alone anywhere, e.g., in a vehicle, yobs throw bangers & fireworks at animals and find it amusing to wind them up, keep your dog safe.

Keep your dog leashed when out. If you use a flexi leash be extra careful, as your dog suddenly running full throttle to the end of it will cause a jolt which can pull the lead right out of your grasp-you end up with a dog running in a panic with the equipment bouncing along behind, the sudden bang of a rocket etc. can cause the most laid back of dogs to bolt; before they know it they are lost.

Dogs that are known to have a problem with fireworks and are affected are best not left alone at home. As dogs are pack animals, stay with your pet and keep inside when the fireworks are being let off. A dog under stress can sometimes become unpredictable and panic, so double check how safe the inside of your home is, e.g., ornaments, glass doors, open fires.

Never take your dog or any animal to a Firework display, it may be fun for you to watch but keep your dog away and safe.

Getting through it – some survival tips:

Preparation is the key, if your dog has a problem remember your dog feels the need to escape from the source of the fear, your dog may become destructive and/or aggressive, panic, go off its food, have diarrhoea, vomit etc., - your job is to minimize the effects as much as you can, keep your dog safe and seek long term professional help so that fireworks are less of a problem in the future. If you’re worried about your dog’s reactions to fireworks it makes sense to go and visit your veterinary clinic for advice and help.

Exercise your dog earlier; try to have him tired out ready for the evening.

Is the house secure-windows closed, cat flap locked (keep the cat safely inside as well), doors secured etc. and both escape proof and safe should your dog panic?

Draw the curtains/blinds to keep out visual reminders-flashing lights etc.).

Have some familiar calming music on or turn up the TV (not too loud) to help block out some of the noise.

Make sure your dog has access to an area where he feels safe - a 'den' which is away from windows with his bedding and toys inside. Place some of your clothing in here so there is a familiar comforting scent, don’t move his bed suddenly, if you are going to set up a safe area in a specific part of the house, do it a few weeks in advance to give him time to adjust and familiarise himself. To make your dog’s den a place where good things happen - you can feed him in there, hide treats in there, favourite chews etc. so that your dog should want to go into his den-don’t ever force him in.

Offer a stuffed Kong (introduce in advance) toys and/or favourite chew toy to distract; giving him something to do can help relieve stress as it may take his mind off the noise and smell of fireworks in the night air.

Make sure there is plenty of fresh drinking water available and feed your pet a couple of hours before the fireworks in the evening to help relax him (if your dog is likely to vomit and/or have diarrhoea be prepared for this).

You could also try using adaptil dog appeasing pheromone-just search DAP as it’s sold widely online & in pet shops. You can use a DAP diffuser which you leave plugged in all day a couple of weeks in advance (next to your dog’s den or bed is ideal) also available is DAP spray and a DAP dog collar (worn in addition to your dog’s normal collar). The canine appeasing hormone is released into the atmosphere and is odourless, it doesn’t affect humans or other animals and helps relieve general anxiety in dogs.

Natural Remedies can also be useful for behavioural problems in dogs, try Dr Bach Rescue Remedy. Another homeopathic remedy which can also help is called HomeoPet Anxiety TFLN it is designed to promote a sense of calm. Scullcap and Valerian tablets are a herbal combination which some dog owners use to bring relief to their dogs when anxious and nervous. Further details at Dorwest Herbs.

An ‘anxiety wrap’ is a relatively new idea and now available to buy. It is worn by a dog (looks like a dog coat) to help relieve stress during times of fireworks & thunderstorms, you can find out more here: http://www.petsperfect.co.uk/products/Anxiety-Wrap.html

If your dog is affected by the noise – do NOT ever punish him. If you go out and find your dog has been destructive whilst you were gone – don’t punish him, stay calm, tidy up any mess and have a cup of tea! It is a completely pointless to punish him, damaging & extremely unkind to your dog, the bond between you both is affected and likely to make him even more stressed out.

 You and your family members need to remain confident, relaxed and cheery, try distracting him if possible.

Try to yourself remain relaxed and upbeat – conveying the message that there is nothing to worry about.

If you are worried at all – get help and further advice now, the more in advance of the fireworks season the better. Desensitisation programmes take months not weeks so think ahead and visit your veterinary clinic for advice and seek out the assistance of a behavioural councillor who will be able to help your dog.

Don’t forget to keep your cats, other animals and birds safe too.

Long-term Action:

If your dog needs help then once the firework session is out the way it’s time to plan ahead as any good behavioural re-modification programme will take time, effort and patience.
There is no ‘quick fix’ to fireworks phobia, treatment programmes involving desensitisation and counter conditions techniques are available.

We recommend you seek help from a professional canine behaviourist-for advice please contact us and visit your veterinary surgeon.

The Fireworks Act:

The Fireworks Act was introduced in August 2004, it makes it an offence to:

* Be under the age of 18 and in possession of fireworks in a public place.

* Let off fireworks louder than 120 decibels.
* Let off fireworks between 11pm and 7am.

The 11pm to 7am curfew is extended on the 5th of November, New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali.

It is against the law to throw or set off fireworks in the street.

Fireworks must not be sold to anyone who is under 18 years of age.

For a full copy of the legislation (The Fireworks Act 2003) visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2003/22/contents

Further information on fireworks and the law can be found here.

The Animal Welfare Act:

Under section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 it is an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any domestic or captive animals.

The penalty on conviction is either imprisonment up to 51 weeks or a fine of up to £20,000 or both. Enforcement of this section of the Act rests with Trading Standards, the Police or the RSPCA as appropriate.

Written by Amanda Dunckley
Updated 2011
Copyright © Endangered Dogs Defence & Rescue 2011