How to Help Dogs Scared of Fireworks

As a professional firework display company, we’ve seen a lot of comments about pets being scared of fireworks. So, we’ve put together this article to explain some of the UK legislation on fireworks, as well as our own suggestions to calm dogs that are shaking due to fireworks and the loud noises that accompany them.

The frustration and anger towards the firework industry obviously gathers pace over the November period, when firing pyrotechnic displays for Guy Fawkes Night begins. Understandably, this is when a lot of pet owners grow frustrated with the fireworks between October, for Diwali and Halloween, and the end of December, for New Year’s Eve. Three of the four directors of Titanium Fireworks have pet dogs, so we relate to other dog owners who view them as important parts of the family.

How to keep a dog calm during fireworks

For dog owners who have dogs who shake and whine during fireworks, here are some of our top tips for keeping a dog calm

• Walk your dog during daylight, don’t take them out as it’s getting dark. If a dog gets scared by a firework outside your home, they could pull away from you off leash and get lost.
• Keep your dogs and cats indoors during expected fireworks displays and make a safe haven for them; a favourite blanket or cushion in a den for security and safety is ideal.
• Don’t fuss or pester your pet, they are very intuitive and will react to their owner’s anxiety. Go about business as usual to make them feel safe and relaxed.
• Close your curtains to dampen the noise and cut out the impact of flashing lights, which can also be upsetting for some animals.
• Play some music or turn on the TV to muffle the noise outside.

By following these simple steps, you can hope to avoid the worst of the distress for your pets. And, seeing as dogs are scared of fireworks due to the loud noises, these tips can also be used during thunderstorms! We’ve also seen increasing legislation and industry-wide changes implemented to make the impact of fireworks reduced for animals and the environment.

Firstly, all fireworks that are used in the UK must be CE marked and comply with the fireworks safety regulations, which impose a maximum noise level for fireworks. Secondly, the types of fireworks the public can buy have been legislated to ban certain types of anti-social behaviour and louder effects. Thirdly, the selling period for fireworks is also restricted to a specified number of weeks prior to the November season. Other controls and measures include tighter restrictions on selling, a licence required to sell fireworks, and the seller must take the details of their customers so that there is a degree of traceability should anyone misuse fireworks.

In addition, the fireworks’ industry has worked with charities and interested groups like the RSPCA for decades to get the message across to users, how celebrating with fireworks can avoid distress to our beloved pets. There is sensible and practical advice that, if taken, can allow people to enjoy themselves with fireworks without causing a significant impact to pets.