Fireworks and Pets
When can I use fireworks?
The Firework Regulations 2004 prohibit anyone under 18 from
possessing fireworks, and anyone except professionals from
possessing display fireworks. These regulations also prohibit the
use of fireworks at night (11.00 pm – 7.00 am) in England and
Wales, with extensions for the following festivals:
- First day of Chinese New Year until 1.00 am the following
day
- On the day of Diwali until 1.00 am the following day
- On New Year's Eve until 1.00 am on New Year's Day
- On 5th November until midnight
These regulations are to be enforced by the police. There is a
penalty of up to £5000 or 6 months in prison for breach of the
curfew.
Similar Restrictions apply in Northern Ireland and in Scotland
though in Scotland the local authority may grant a dispensation for
national celebrations or commemorative events.
Top tips
Follow these easy top tips to make sure your pet remains relaxed
and happy over the firework season.
- On the evenings you expect fireworks ensure your pet is safe
indoors and secure doors, windows and cat flaps
- Make sure your dog or cat is microchipped. If they do escape,
frightened confused animals can easily get lost or injured and it
is important that they are easily identified
- Ensure dogs are taken out to toilet early in the evening and
cats are provided with a litter tray
- Draw curtains to reduce outside noise and play music or have
the TV turned on to help mask the noise of fireworks.
- Ignore any fearful behaviour. Do not try to comfort your pet.
The animal will pick up on your anxiety and this may make the
problem worse and/or fussing a pet who appears frightened can
reward this negative behaviour
- Don’t punish your pet either; this only confirms that there was
something to be afraid of
- If your pet hides in a corner or under a bed, leave it alone
and do not try to coax it out. This ‘bolthole’ is where the animal
feels most secure
- Try not to go out during such potentially upsetting events.
Seeing you acting normally will help your pets feel more
settled
- Speak to your vet about using the synthetic pheromones for you
pets during the fireworks season
- If you are still worried or if the pet takes a long time to
recover from the experience contact your vet for further assistance
or for referral for behavioral therapy
