Caring for animals during fireworks displays

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Caring for animals during fireworks displays

As we approach the end of the year, there are many celebrations that may involve fireworks. Unfortunately, many animals are terrified by firework displays, and these can indirectly pose risks to animal safety by causing them to take flight and try to escape the loud noises. Read on for some tips and advice on how to protect your pets during these events.

RSPCA Australia
Monday, 9 December 2024

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As we approach the end of the year, there are many celebrations that may involve fireworks. Unfortunately, many animals are terrified by firework displays, and these can indirectly pose risks to animal safety by causing them to take flight and try to escape the loud noises.

Dogs and horses in particular often try to run away when frightened by fireworks and may injure themselves. Many of these animals can end up several kilometres from home. Dogs have been known to jump through plate glass windows to escape loud noises, and easily jump over, or dig their way under fences that would normally contain them.

Read on for some tips and advice on how to protect your pets during these events.

Keeping your dog calm and safe

Dogs are highly sensitive to loud noises, and fireworks can provoke extreme fear. Preparing ahead of time can help ensure your dog feels safe and secure.

Plan in advance: Discuss treatment options with your veterinarian, including any new approaches for managing noise phobias.
Exercise and routine: Take your dog for a long walk before the fireworks start. Feed them a couple of hours afterwards to help them feel relaxed. If possible, stay home to provide comfort and supervise them to help prevent injury or escape.
Create a safe environment: Keep your dog indoors if possible, close the blinds/curtains to decrease visual stimuli, and create a comfortable hiding place. An example of a hiding place can be a cardboard box with blankets inside. Cover the box with another blanket and put on some soft music or the TV to help mask the noise outside.
Engage and distract: Play games or provide treats to keep your dog occupied, but don’t force interaction if they prefer to hide.
Identification: Ensure your dog is microchipped and wearing an ID tag with updated contact details.
Avoid restraints: Never tether your dog or use a choke chain, as these can lead to injury if they panic. Do not punish your dog or any animal if they show signs of fear and distress.
Direct supervision: If you can’t supervise your dog, arrange for them to stay with a responsible person or a reputable boarding kennel.

Caring for cats, rabbits, and other pets

Cats, rabbits, and small animals also need special care during fireworks. Cats should be kept indoors during fireworks displays. Most cats will find somewhere safe to hide and will usually venture out when the noise stops; ensure that they have some comfortable and safe places to hide. Make sure your cat is microchipped, and your details are up to date on the microchip register in case they escape and become lost. Rabbits and other small animals like guinea pigs should be safely housed during the fireworks display.

Protecting horses and wildlife

Horses are particularly vulnerable to bolting when exposed to fireworks. A recent study in New Zealand found that many owned horses escape in response to fireworks. Some horses come back with lacerations, strains, and broken limbs. In preparation for a known fireworks event nearby, if possible, horses should be securely stabled or temporarily moved to a location away from the fireworks display, to minimise the risk of them physically harming themselves. Any sharp objects that might injure a panicking horse should be removed, stable windows should be covered to hide the sight of the fireworks and to reduce the noise, and food and water should be available for the horse.

Wildlife are also affected by the unexpected noises and bright lights fireworks produce. Wild birds will often take flight due to fear and panic and can sustain injuries as a result of flying into each other, trees, fences, and buildings. Larger animals like kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats may escape from the noise, and end up on roads, which may result in them being injured or killed by vehicles. Firework debris is also toxic if ingested by animals. Contact your local wildlife carer organisation if you have any concerns about risks to local wildlife.

By preparing ahead and taking these steps, you can enjoy fireworks responsibly while protecting the wellbeing of pets and other animals. Small changes in how you manage these events can make a significant difference for the animals in your care.

For more information visit the RSPCA Knowledgebase

This piece was originally published in Australian Community Media newspapers.

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