Fireworks cause severe acute welfare harm to millions of companion animals and wildlife annually, with better management options available.
Fireworks fear in companion animals represents a predictable, recurring welfare emergency that society largely accepts as inevitable. The physiological fear response — elevated cortisol, heart rate, and adrenaline — combined with desperate attempts to escape creates acute suffering for millions of dogs, cats, and other companion animals during every major holiday celebration. The welfare harm extends to wild animals in the immediate area. Silent fireworks and noise-reduction technologies offer genuine alternatives that communities willing to prioritize animal welfare can adopt.