Fireworks can cause deaths of animals says RSPCA

Event organisers are being urged to consider quiet fireworks to protect animals and wildlife

Firework event organisers are being urged to consider quieter, more animal-friendly displays.

The RSPCA has said it wants the noise levels of fireworks reduced, their sales limited and firework-free zones created.

The charity reported last year on the severe injury of a horse named Foxy and the death of dog Luna after both were separately spooked by fireworks.

A spokesperson for Cheltenham Animal Centre said: "The sudden loud noises, bright flashes, and vibrations... [can make] animals panic in response, leading to disorientation, injury, or, in severe cases, fatal outcomes."

The RSPCA is urging the public to sign their petition calling for a change in fireworks legislation by contacting their local MP.

'Huge distress'

The charity's campaign manager Carrie Stones said: "We want to see a restriction of fireworks sales to licensed venues only, and a limit to a set number of days when people can let off fireworks."

"We'd also like to see the noise level of fireworks reduced by manufacturers, clearly labelled on packaging, and include a warning that the fireworks may cause huge distress to animals."

BANES council, which is sharing RSPCA advice in the lead-up to firework events, passed a motion on the subject in 2021.

This encouraged residents to reduce the noise and debris caused by displays and consider both domestic and wild animals when organising events.

Jodie Hayward, Home Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre said: "Every year we see terrified pets shaking, hiding, or even running away [and long term], fireworks can cause lasting trauma in pets."

The RSPCA says it wants the sale of fireworks to be restricted

Ms Stones said: "We know 66% of pet owners say backyard firework displays are a major concern, which highlights the level of anxiety and worry that so many animal owners have [during] fireworks season."

The charity is partnering with radio station Classic FM for the return of Pet Classics, the annual radio show to help owners and pets relax during fireworks season.

There will be two specially-created programmes on Wednesday 5 November from 17.00 to 21.00 and at the same time on Saturday 8 November.