Companion Animals

Dog Welfare During Fireworks Season

Fireworks cause acute and chronic welfare harm to many dogs, and the fireworks season requires proactive management and longer-term desensitisation work.

Key Facts

An estimated 40-50% of dogs in the UK show fear responses to fireworks
Signs include panting, trembling, hiding, and attempting to escape
Repeated exposure to fireworks can worsen fear responses over time
Desensitisation using sound therapy should be started well before fireworks season
Anti-anxiety medication is appropriate for dogs with severe responses

Welfare Considerations

Dogs experiencing fireworks phobia suffer genuine acute fear that causes significant distress. Strategies that leave dogs to cope alone or use aversive punishment for fear responses worsen welfare and long-term outcomes. The combination of environmental management during fireworks events with desensitisation training between seasons offers the best welfare outcomes. Medication for severe cases should be sought from veterinarians rather than avoided as weakness.

What You Can Do

Begin desensitisation training using sound therapy recordings months before fireworks season
Create a safe hiding space for phobic dogs before the fireworks season begins
Close curtains and play music to muffle fireworks sounds during events
Ask your vet about medication options for dogs with severe noise phobia
Support campaigns for quieter fireworks and restrictions on public use