With the holiday season around the corner, many families across the U.S. are excitedly planning gatherings, food, and festivities. But as the good cheer fills the air, so does the risk of safety hazards, particularly for our pets. Fireworks, which have become synonymous with celebrations—especially around New Year and the Fourth of July—pose significant dangers, not just to humans but pets too.
The impact of fireworks on animals is gaining more attention, particularly after recent incidents leading to serious consequences. At the Edinburgh Zoo, for example, the tragic death of three-month-old red panda Roxie has triggered calls for tighter regulations. According to reports, Roxie choked on her vomit on Bonfire Night, which was attributed to overwhelming stress caused by nearby fireworks. Ben Supple, deputy chief executive of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, stated, "Very sadly, she choked on her vomit on Bonfire Night and our vets believe this was probably a reaction to fireworks. Roxie had access to her den, but the frightening noises seem to have been too much for her." This incident has ignited discussions about animal welfare and the regulatory measures surrounding fireworks.
Fireworks are notorious for causing distress to not only zoo animals like Roxie but also household pets and local wildlife. According to animal welfare advocates, fireworks can instigate fear reactions leading some pets to bolt from their homes, leading to accidents or getting lost. This added distress can also aggravate existing health conditions—especially for older or sensitive animals.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland is joining various advocacy groups to urge for policy changes. Supple emphasized the need for government action, supporting petitions for stricter firework regulations such as banning public sales, allowing only organized displays. A recent petition garnered over one million signatures for heightened restrictions, aiming to confine firework use to designated festivals and lower the maximum noise levels from such displays.
At the same time, it's important to know how much noise actually affects animals. Despite legal limitations on fireworks use—such as restrictions on using them after 11 PM, and designated periods on holidays—the sound can travel significant distances, indicating additional protective measures may be necessary. Supple highlighted the inadequacy of firework exclusion zones, as many animals may still be distressed by the noise at lower frequencies even if it is technically quieter. He stated, "The noise from fireworks can travel over large distances, meaning any exclusion zone around Edinburgh Zoo would need to cover most of the city. Many of the animals in the zoo will also be disturbed by noises at lower frequencies even if the decibel level is reduced."
The impact of fireworks on animal safety is not merely limited to public opinion but calls for tangible governmental actions. Siobhian Brown, Scotland's community safety minister, acknowledged the distress caused to animals and noted the government's initiative to provide local authorities with powers to establish firework control zones: areas where the use of fireworks is banned to protect the community, domestic animals, and wildlife. While she noted the progress, she also admitted, "While I understand the calls for a ban, the issue was not within the Scottish government's powers."
Beyond the political discourse, pet owners are encouraged to take proactive measures to protect their furry friends during these festive periods. This can involve simple steps such as providing safe, quiet spaces away from windows where loud noises can easily penetrate. Using white noise machines, anxiety wraps, or pheromone diffusers can also be effective strategies to help calm stressed pets. It’s also wise to keep pets indoors during fireworks displays to reduce their chances of escaping due to fright.
Meanwhile, firework safety campaigns have emerged to help raise awareness on the responsible use of such products. A spokesperson for the UK Department for Business and Trade indicated their commitment to keeping both pets and the public safe, highlighting the importance of using fireworks responsibly and appropriately.
While firework displays are often viewed as festive and fun, their consequences can be dire, particularly when it involves the safety and well-being of our pets. The story of Roxie serves as a poignant example and a call to action for individuals to reflect on their role during celebrations. Protective measures, both legislative and personal, need to be strengthened as communities are called upon to prioritize the safety of all companions—whether they slip through the cracks of our urban environment or thrive within the protected enclosures of zoos.
Animal safety advocates stress the importance of creating safe spaces during high-stress events like fireworks displays, especially for sensitive animals. Considering pets' mental and physical well-being during celebrated occasions might change the narrative around our holiday traditions for the benefit of our furry family members. So, as the sky lights up with brilliant colors, let's not forget about those who gaze upon the magic with apprehension—our beloved pets.
