Owner issues firework warning after death of horse

Liberty Starkie's horse Jade was put down after being injured when it was scared by fireworks

The owner of a horse which died after being spooked by fireworks has urged people to "think twice" before setting them off near animals.

Liberty Starkie, 18, said her horse Jade had to be put down after injuring its back legs when it was scared by fireworks nearby.

Ms Starkie said fireworks were set off as part of Halloween celebrations.

She added: "She couldn't move her back legs at all. We called the vet but he said there was nothing he could do."

Warning: The following image may cause distress

Ms Starkie, who looks after horses in South Gloucestershire, added: "The government does have guidance about setting off fireworks near livestock because things like this can happen."

Jade injured her back legs and Ms Starkie was told by a vet that there was nothing they could do

Under the Animal Welfare Act, it is an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any captive or domestic animal.

The offence carries a fine of up to £20,000 and/or a prison term of up to six months.

It is enforced by local councils, animal health officers and the police.

Government guidance on fireworks displays adds that they must not be set off near livestock or horses in fields, or close to buildings housing livestock, and anyone planning a display in a rural area should warn people in advance.

Ms Starkie, riding horse Jade, has urged people to think about animals before setting off fireworks

Ahead of Bonfire Night on 5 November, the RSPCA has launched a campaign which aims to end the distress caused by fireworks for animals.

According to a study conducted by the RSPCA, 76% of adults think the government should limit days on which fireworks can be let off and 73% think firework control zones should be introduced.

Carrie Stones, the charity's campaign manager, said: "While many people enjoy watching displays, for many animals the dazzling spectacle of fireworks often becomes a terrifying ordeal.

"Sadly, we are inundated with calls each year about welfare concerns for animals connected to fireworks and we hear first-hand how frustrated the public are that the Bonfire Night period seems to last longer than ever before."

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