Fireworks season is just around the corner, and the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is warning pet owners to stay alert. With Diwali on October 20, Bonfire Night on November 5, and New Year’s Eve shortly after, vets brace for a surge in pets and livestock suffering from fear and injury.

Fireworks Panic: How Animals Tell the Tale

Animals react differently to fireworks. Some dogs drool, pant, and try to flee. Others show more subtle signs—restlessness or toileting indoors. Cats often hide away, rabbits stay rock still and thump their feet, while poultry risk deadly ‘smother’ by huddling in panic.

Each year, British vets treat injuries linked to fireworks scares. Common issues include dogs damaging teeth chewing furniture out of anxiety and horses fracturing limbs after bolting from frightened fields. Leftover explosives and paper lantern debris also threaten livestock and wildlife.

BVA President Issues Urgent Warning and Advice

Dr Rob Williams MRCVS, BVA President: “Fireworks might be fun for some but for pets, farm animals and wildlife, they’re terrifying. We see burns, injuries, and stress every year. Simple actions like creating safe dens and checking microchip details can make a huge difference.”

“If your pet is seriously frightened, speak to your vet now about noise desensitisation, pheromone products and tailored treatments. Early help is key.”

Top 10 BVA Tips to Protect Your Pets and Livestock

1. Consult your vet about stress treatments like calming drugs or pheromone sprays.
2. Set up a cosy, padded den for your pet before fireworks start.
3. Check your pet’s microchip details are up to date to aid recovery if they escape.
4. Move small pets (rabbits, guinea pigs) indoors away from noise.
5. Close windows and curtains; use background noise to mask fireworks.
6. Stay calm if your pet is distressed—never punish signs like restlessness.
7. Keep livestock in during local fireworks and clear fields of dangerous debris.
8. Consider letting horses out in fields rather than stabling; seek a behaviourist’s advice if needed.
9. If hosting fireworks, keep animals well away and dispose of debris responsibly.
10. Before lighting bonfires, check for wild animals hiding in the pile.

BVA Pushes Government for Tougher Fireworks Laws

The BVA is campaigning hard for stricter rules on fireworks sales and use. On November 12, the Fireworks Impact Coalition—of which BVA is a member—will lobby MPs in Parliament, urging new laws to protect both animals and people from fireworks chaos.