Fireworks cause severe welfare suffering for many dogs beyond Bonfire Night, requiring policy, management, and veterinary approaches to reduce the year-round welfare burden.
Fireworks cause welfare harm to dogs extending well beyond the traditional Bonfire Night period. New Year, Diwali, and increasingly popular year-round firework sales mean dogs face unpredictable loud noise events throughout the year. The welfare burden is significant: many dogs cannot be left alone during fireworks events, owners plan around events affecting quality of life for both dogs and owners. Welfare-focused policy approaches including restricting public fireworks sales, requiring advance notice, and promoting welfare-safe alternatives (silent fireworks) directly reduce the number of dogs experiencing acute fear. Veterinary treatment options including Sileo provide effective short-term relief.